Determining how long spinach artichoke dip is good for after the best by date can be tricky. The shelf life depends on several factors like the ingredients, how it was stored, and when it was opened. Here is a quick overview of how to tell if spinach artichoke dip is still good and how long it will last past the best by date.
What is the Shelf Life of Unopened Spinach Artichoke Dip?
Unopened, commercially prepared spinach artichoke dip has a shelf life of 2-4 weeks past the printed best by date when stored properly. The best by date is simply the last date by which the manufacturer can guarantee the best quality, not an expiration date. Unopened spinach artichoke dip lasts this long because of preservatives and due to the lack of exposure to air and bacteria.
Proper Storage of Unopened Spinach Artichoke Dip
To get the maximum shelf life from store-bought, unopened spinach artichoke dip, be sure to store it properly:
- Store in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
- Keep the dip in an air-tight container if it did not already come in one.
- Keep away from the back of the refrigerator where temperatures fluctuate.
How to Tell if Unopened Spinach Artichoke Dip is Bad
Check for these signs that indicate your unopened spinach artichoke dip has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Container is puffed up or bulging.
- Liquid is seeping through container.
- Dip has an off odor, color, or appearance when opened.
How Long Does Opened Spinach Artichoke Dip Last?
Once opened, spinach artichoke dip will only last about 4-7 days in the refrigerator. Exposure to air and double-dipping speeds up the spoilage. Follow these tips for extending the shelf life of opened spinach artichoke dip:
- Transfer to an airtight container if not already in one.
- Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below.
- Only dip clean utensils into the dip to reduce bacterial contamination.
- Discard if you see any mold.
How to Tell When Opened Spinach Artichoke Dip is Bad
Watch for these signs that opened spinach artichoke dip has spoiled and should be thrown out:
- Mold growth
- Separation of ingredients
- Sour smell or taste
- Change in color or texture
Can You Freeze Spinach Artichoke Dip?
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of spinach artichoke dip. To freeze:
- Allow dip to cool completely first.
- Transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace.
- Label container with contents and freeze date.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Use immediately after thawing.
How to Store Homemade Spinach Artichoke Dip
Homemade spinach artichoke dip has a shorter shelf life than commercially prepared dips. Follow these guidelines for homemade spinach artichoke dip:
- Refrigerate in airtight container for 3-5 days.
- Freeze for 2-3 months.
- To freeze, cool completely first. Store in airtight container leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace. Thaw overnight in fridge before using.
Extending the Shelf Life of Spinach Artichoke Dip
Here are some tips for extending the shelf life of spinach artichoke dip:
- Use pasteurized egg products to reduce the risk of salmonella.
- Replace dairy cream with oil-based substitutes.
- Use preservatives like lemon juice or vinegar.
- Opt for shelf-stable ingredients like canned artichoke hearts.
- Store at coldest part of refrigerator, usually bottom shelf.
Conclusion
With proper refrigeration and storage, commercially prepared spinach artichoke dip can last 2-4 weeks past the printed best by date when unopened. Once opened, use within 4-7 days. Freezing can extend the shelf life by 2-3 months. Homemade dips have a shorter shelf life of 3-5 days. Check for signs of spoilage before eating spinach artichoke dip past the best by date. Use good food safety practices to maximize the shelf life of both store-bought and homemade spinach artichoke dip.