How Long Does Hummus Last?

How long does hummus last? The shelf life of hummus depends on a variety of factors, such as the best by date, the preparation method and how the hummus is stored. Hummus, a spread or dip comprised mostly of chic peas with the addition of various flavorings, is a versatile spread or dip of Greek origin. Because of its relatively low cost, low fat, low cholesterol and low maintenance - balanced with high protein, high fiber, high vitamins and high versatility - hummus has gained popularity most everywhere as a great snack, appetizer or addition to any meal.

So, How long does hummus last past its printed date? Check the table below to find out.

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Hummus Expiration Date

Unopened Fridge Freezer
Past Printed Date Past Printed Date
Packaged Hummus lasts for 3-10 Days 6-8 Months
Homemade Hummus lasts for 3-5 Days 6-8 Months
Opened Fridge Freezer
Packaged Hummus lasts for 4-6 Days --
Homemade Hummus lasts for 3-5 Days --

Of course, all foods last for a shorter period of time if they are not stored properly. But remember, like a lot of other proteins, it usually has a best by date and not a use by date or expiration date. If there is a date on your product, it is the manufacturer's recommendation for best quality - not safety. Because of this distinction, you may safely use hummus to compliment your favorite meals even after the best by date or sell by date has lapsed according to the above table.

How to tell if Hummus is bad, rotten or spoiled?

Practicing proper hygiene and food safety techniques will help prevent foodborne illness.

Although not a perfect test, your nose is usually the most reliable instruments to tell if your hummus has gone bad. Bad hummus has a distinct sour smell, whereas fresh hummus doesn't have much aroma unless garlic or cilantro has been added. If it smells sour, it tastes sour. So don't bother tasting it, just toss it. After that it will start to develop mold. Some hummus manufacturers will use preservatives that keep their product fresh beyond the recommended 5 days, but most will begin to smell sour after about 5 days.

There are, of course, certain health risks associated with spoiled foods so always remember to practice food safety and enjoy your foods before their shelf life has expired!

How to store Hummus to extend its shelf life?

You can help hummus stay fresh longer by storing it in your refrigerator below 40°F after every use. Hummus should be stored in a tightly closed container to keep out moisture and other contaminants. For a long-term option, hummus freezes really well and defrosts overnight in the refrigerator.

Some benefits of proper food storage include eating healthier, cutting food costs and helping the environment by avoiding waste.

Interesting facts about Hummus:

Make hummus:

  • Throw a can of chick peas into the blender or food processor with some lemon juice (2T), salt (1/4t), cumin (1/4t), garlic (2 cloves), and tahini (1T (sesame seed paste) and EVOO (1T). For really smooth hummus texture, you should boil the chick peas first.
  • How long is Hummus good for when prepared in a dish?

    How long does hummus last? That depends. How long does tahini last? In general, foods last only as long as the quickest expiring ingredient in the dish.

    What are our shelf life resources?

    In determining how long Hummus lasts, our content incorporates research from multiple resources, including the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food & Drug Administration. In addition, we scoured the web for informative articles and reports related to food safety, food storage and the shelf life of Hummus.

    *An important note about expiration dates...

    Although the Hummus shelf life information on Eat By Date is generally reliable, please remember that individual cases will vary and that our advice should only be taken as an opinion and not a replacement for your health care professional. Please eat responsibly!

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