You can sometimes eat yogurt after the use-by date, but it depends on several factors, including storage conditions and whether the container has been opened. “Use by” dates typically indicate the last date a food is expected to be at peak quality, not necessarily the last date it is safe to eat[3]. For unopened yogurt that has been properly refrigerated, it is often still safe to eat for a few days past the use-by date, but you should always check for signs of spoilage[5].
Spoilage indicators include visible mold, an off or sour smell, significant separation of liquid, or changes in texture (such as clumping or curdling). If you notice any of these signs, you should discard the yogurt, regardless of the date[6].
According to food safety experts, opened yogurt typically lasts about a week past the date printed on the container. Yogurt with fruit on the bottom or mix-ins should be discarded by the use-by date, as the added ingredients can increase the risk of yeast and mold growth[5]. Always use clean utensils to avoid introducing additional bacteria.
The USDA recommends consuming yogurt within one to two weeks of purchase, assuming it has been continuously refrigerated. After this period, there may be an increased risk of foodborne illness due to the potential growth of harmful microbes, which cannot always be detected by taste, smell, or appearance[1][7].
In summary, you may safely enjoy yogurt a short time after the use-by date if it has been stored correctly and shows no signs of spoilage. However, when in doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard yogurt past its recommended date to avoid potential health risks.
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