Candy is a general term that encompasses a great variety of sweet confectionary products. The degree and speed with which candy will go bad, depends on what it is. So let's break it down.
How Long Is Candy Good For?
Store your candy in a cool – room temp or slightly less – and dry place. If it contains nuts or chocolate, it'll expire faster. If not, the less moisture and fat that type of candy has, the longer it will last. Upper end on lifespan for the most persevering candies is two years, but most are about 6 months.
Here are some general guidelines on how long candy lasts before you should consider throwing it out.
Does Candy Go Bad? Understanding Candy Expiration
Everyone has experienced that agonizing moment: you've found a long-forgotten candy bar in the back of your pantry, your taste buds start tingling, but a shadow of doubt crosses your mind -- has it gone bad?
While it might not pose a significant health risk as spoiled dairy or meat would, candy can indeed "expire" in its own sugary way.
Let's unravel this confectionary conundrum.
Candy generally has a long shelf life if stored properly. Some factors that can affect the shelf life of candy include the type of candy, the ingredients used, and how it is stored. Here are some general guidelines for storing different types of candy:
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Hard Candy: Hard candy like lollipops or candy canes can last for a year or more if stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
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Chocolate: Chocolate can last from 6 months to a year if stored in a cool, dry place. It is best to store chocolate in a sealed container to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
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Gummy Candy: Gummy candies typically have a shorter shelf life compared to hard candies or chocolate. They can last for about 6 to 12 months if stored in a cool, dry place.
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Sour Candy: Sour candies may have a shorter shelf life due to the acidity in them. They can last for about 6 months to a year if stored properly.
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Caramel Candy: Caramel candies can last for several months if stored in a cool, dry place. It's important to keep them away from heat and moisture to prevent them from melting or becoming sticky.
If your candy is past its expiration date, it may not necessarily be unsafe to eat, but the quality and taste may have deteriorated. It's always a good idea to check the packaging for any specific storage instructions or expiration dates provided by the manufacturer.
In conclusion, while it's not necessary to eat all your candy before it expires, it is important to store it properly in a cool, dry place to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible.
Disclaimer: Always consult your physician on matters that relate to your health. We do not recommend eating candy that is not fresh. This is a candy blog. We are not doctors, and will not be responsible for any candy eaten that may cause discomfort or illness.