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How Long Does Vanilla Extract Last? — Shelf Life & Storage Guide

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Pantry/Counter: Indefinite (pure extract)

Category: Condiments

Overview

Vanilla Extract lasts Indefinite (pure extract) in the pantry. Complete shelf life, storage tips, and spoilage signs.

Key Details

  • Pantry/Counter: Indefinite (pure extract)
  • Category: Condiments

Why This Matters

  • Spoilage sign: Cloudy appearance (imitation)
  • Spoilage sign: Weak aroma
  • Spoilage sign: Off or chemical smell (imitation)
  • Spoilage sign: Sediment that does not dissolve

How To

  1. 1Pure vanilla extract lasts indefinitely due to alcohol content
  2. 2Imitation vanilla: 2-4 years before flavor degrades
  3. 3Store in cool, dark place with tight cap
  4. 4Alcohol base acts as natural preservative
  5. 5Do not refrigerate — cold causes clouding and flavoring to precipitate

Tags

shelf-lifecondimentsvanilla-extractstoragefood-safety

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Frequently Asked Questions

Vanilla Extract is not typically stored in the fridge.