Dairy/Beverage Additive
Liquid (dairy or non-dairy) or powdered. Liquid creamers can be refrigerated or shelf-stable.

CreamerShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Unsafe for opened liquid creamer.

Opened liquid creamers must be refrigerated immediately. Unopened shelf-stable liquid creamers can be stored in a cool, dry place until the printed date. Powdered creamer can be stored in a cool, dry place for 6-9 months after opening, or 2 years unopened.

Refrigerator

1-2 weeks (after opening for liquid creamer)

Keep liquid creamer tightly sealed in its original container. Store on an inside shelf, not in the door. Unopened refrigerated liquid creamer can be stored until the printed date.

Freezer

Not recommended due to quality changes; up to 3 months for safety.

Freezing liquid creamer may cause separation and a grainy texture. If freezing, transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container, leaving headspace. Thaw in the refrigerator.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Sour or off odor
  • Curdled or lumpy texture
  • Mold growth
  • Discoloration

Room Temperature Safety

2-hour rule (1 hour above 90°F/32°C)

40°F–140°F

Liquid creamer should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F (32°C), discard after 1 hour.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Always refrigerate liquid creamer immediately after opening.

2

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

3

Check 'Best by' or 'Use by' dates and discard if expired.

4

Discard liquid creamer if signs of spoilage are present.

Related Items

Comparisons

Milk (opened)
Pantry
Unsafe
Fridge
7 days
Freezer
3 months
Half-and-Half (opened)
Pantry
Unsafe
Fridge
3-5 days
Freezer
Not recommended (quality)
Heavy Cream (opened)
Pantry
Unsafe
Fridge
1 month
Freezer
Not recommended (quality)