Can Dates Go off?

Dates can go bad just like any other fruit. However, they have a long shelf life, and you will likely eat them before spoiling. When storing them properly, you will ensure they last longer than the label date shows. However, all fruits ripe over time and rot eventually, so you can't keep dates fresh forever.

How do you know if dates have gone bad?

Smell is a clear indicator that will alert you to spoiled dates. These amber-colored fruits don't have a strong smell, but you'll likely notice a delicate and mild fragrance. If you detect a strong, off-putting, or rotten odor, take this as a sign that your dates have gone bad and it's time to toss them.

Do dates go bad after expiration date?

At room temperature, dates can last between a month up to 3 months. When you keep them in the fridge, they retain quality for between 6 and 12 months. If your dates are of the softer varieties, their shelf life will be shorter than those of the drier ones. For even longer storage, freeze the fruits.