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Do M&M’s go bad?
M&M’s are a popular treat enjoyed by many. Whether you snack on them or use them in various recipes, M&M’s offer a versatile and tasty option. But have you ever wondered if M&M’s can go bad? In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of M&M’s, how to determine if they’ve gone bad, and the best practices for storing them.
The shelf life of M&M’s
When stored properly, M&M’s can last a long time. In fact, they can last past their expiration date and remain edible for an extended period of time. Typically, M&M’s can be kept for up to a year after the expiration date printed on the package. However, it’s important to note that actual shelf life may vary depending on the type of M&M’s.
Different varieties of M&M’s may have different shelf lives. While most M&M’s are made with ingredients that have a long shelf life, those that contain nuts or other added ingredients may not last as long. It’s worth noting that milk chocolate M&M’s generally have a longer shelf life than other flavors.
Identifying spoiled M&M’s
Determining whether M&M’s have gone bad is relatively easy. Visual clues can indicate if the chocolate has deteriorated. Look for signs such as discoloration or the chocolate turning white, which indicates that the chocolate is aging and may have lost its optimal taste and texture.
In addition to visual cues, you can also rely on your sense of smell. M&M’s should have a pleasant chocolate aroma. If you notice an unpleasant or unusual odor, it’s a good indication that the M&M’s have gone bad and should be discarded.
Taste is another factor to consider. If you find that the M&M’s taste off or have an unpleasant flavor, it’s best not to eat them. While they are not necessarily harmful, their quality may have deteriorated, resulting in an unsatisfactory eating experience.
Proper storage for longer shelf life
To keep your M&M’s fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Here are some tips for storing M&M’s:
- Store in a cool, dry place: Heat and moisture can shorten the shelf life of M&M’s. Store them in a pantry or cabinet away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Seal tightly: M&M’s are packaged in resealable wrappers to help maintain freshness. Be sure to seal the package tightly to prevent air or moisture from entering. Alternatively, you can transfer them to an airtight container or storage bag for added protection.
- Consider freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life of your M&M’s even further, freezing is an option. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer. Properly frozen M&M’s can last up to 12 months.
Remember that freezing M&M’s will not cause them to spoil, regardless of the expiration date on the package. However, it’s important to make sure the M&M’s are in good condition before freezing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, M&M’s have a long shelf life and can last well past their expiration date when stored properly. While they may eventually go bad over an extended period of time, it usually takes a significant amount of time. Visual clues such as discoloration and changes in smell or taste may indicate that M&M’s have gone bad.
By following proper storage practices, such as keeping them in a cool, dry place, sealing them tightly and considering freezing, you can enjoy M&M’s for an extended period of time without compromising their quality. So go ahead and enjoy those M&M’s, knowing that with proper storage, they can stay delicious for a long time.
FAQS
How long do M&M’s last?
When stored properly, M&M’s can last up to one year past their expiration date.
Can M&M’s go bad?
While M&M’s can eventually go bad, it generally takes a significant amount of time. Proper storage can help extend their shelf life.
How will I know if M&M’s have gone bad?
Look for visual clues such as discoloration or white spots on the chocolate. Unpleasant odors or off-flavors may also indicate that M&M’s have gone bad.
Do different types of M&M’s have different shelf lives?
Yes, some varieties of M&M’s may have a shorter shelf life, especially those that contain nuts or other added ingredients. Milk Chocolate M&M’s generally have a longer shelf life compared to other flavors.
Can I freeze M&M’s to extend their shelf life?
Yes, freezing M&M’s can help extend their shelf life. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag before placing in the freezer. Frozen M&M’s can last an additional 12 months.
Are M&M’s safe to eat after the expiration date?
Yes, in most cases, M&M’s are safe to eat after the expiration date. However, their quality may have deteriorated, affecting their taste and texture. Use visual inspection and your senses to determine if they are still enjoyable to eat.