Natural YogurtShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide
Pantry
Not RecommendedUnsafe
Yogurt must be kept refrigerated. Do not store at room temperature.
Refrigerator
1-2 weeks
Keep yogurt refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. Keep container tightly sealed after opening.
Freezer
1-2 months
While safe to freeze, the texture of yogurt may change upon thawing, becoming more watery or grainy. Stir well after thawing. Thaw in the refrigerator.
Signs of Spoilage
- Visible mold growth (any color)
- Sour, off, or yeasty smell
- Excessive liquid separation (beyond normal whey separation)
- Slimy or unusually thick texture
- Bulging or leaking container
Room Temperature Safety
The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
Always refrigerate yogurt promptly. If it has been left out within the danger zone for longer than the recommended time, it should be discarded.
Safe Handling
Always keep yogurt refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Do not leave yogurt at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F/32°C).
Use clean utensils to scoop yogurt to prevent introducing bacteria.
Discard if left in the danger zone (40°F-140°F) for too long.