Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Refrigerate
once opened
In the fridgeFridge
2–3 weeks
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
3–5 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
On the counterCounter
14–18 days
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
Not needed
shelf-stable
In the freezerFreezer
3–5 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Bread lasts 2–3 weeks in the fridge and 3–5 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if bread is bad
Smell
Musty, sour or alcoholic smell.
Texture
Hard and dry is stale but safe; damp or sticky is not.
Colour
Discoloured spots on the crust or crumb.
Mould
Any visible mould — discard the whole item; roots spread unseen.
Bread past the expiration date
Unopened
FoodKeeper gives unopened bread 14–18 days in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Opened
Once opened, the printed date no longer applies. Count 2–3 weeks in the fridge from the day you open it.
How to keep bread fresh longer
- Keep at room temperature in a bread box or sealed bag for the best texture.
- Refrigeration slows mould but makes bread stale faster.
- Freeze what you will not eat in time.
More about bread
FAQ
How long does it take for bread to go bad?
2–3 weeks in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can bread expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened bread 14–18 days in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad bread?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep bread from going bad?
Keep at room temperature in a bread box or sealed bag for the best texture.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number