Creamer
Liquid Creamer (opened)

Coffee MateShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Unsafe

Opened liquid creamer must be refrigerated immediately after use. Do not store at room temperature.

Refrigerator

1-2 weeks

Keep opened liquid creamer tightly sealed in its original container in the refrigerator. Do not return unused portions to the original container if they have been left out.

Freezer

Not Recommended

Not recommended

Freezing liquid creamer is not recommended as it can cause separation and a grainy texture upon thawing, significantly affecting quality. While safe from a microbial standpoint, quality is compromised.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Sour smell
  • Off-flavor
  • Mold growth
  • Curdled or lumpy texture
  • Discoloration

Room Temperature Safety

The 2-hour rule applies: Do not leave perishable foods, including opened liquid creamer, at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), this time reduces to 1 hour.

The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).

Promptly refrigerate opened liquid creamer to prevent bacterial growth. Discard any creamer left in the danger zone for too long.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Always check the 'Best By' or 'Use By' date on the packaging for unopened products.

2

Refrigerate liquid creamer immediately after opening.

3

Do not leave liquid creamer at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F/32°C).

4

Discard if any signs of spoilage are present.

Related Items

Comparisons

Milk (opened)For best quality, freezing milk is not recommended as it can separate.
Fridge
7 days
Freezer
Not recommended
Half-and-Half (opened)Freezing half-and-half is not recommended due to texture changes.
Fridge
3-4 days
Freezer
Not recommended
Powdered Coffee Creamer (opened)
Pantry
6-9 months
Fridge
Not necessary
Freezer
Not necessary
Shelf-Stable Liquid Coffee Creamer (unopened)
Pantry
Until 'Best By' date
Fridge
Not necessary
Freezer
Not recommended