Shelf Life Tips
- How long does unopened tomato juice last? The precise answer to the question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - store unopened cans or bottles of tomato juice in a cool, dark area.
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To extend the shelf life of unopened tomato juice, keep unopened tomato juice away from direct sources of heat or light.
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How long does unopened tomato juice last at room temperature? Properly stored, unopened tomato juice that has been sold unrefrigerated will generally stay at best quality for about 18 to 24 months after the date on the package when stored at room temperature, although it will usually remain safe to drink after that.
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Is unopened tomato juice safe to drink after the "expiration" date on the can or bottle? Yes, provided it is properly stored and the can or bottle is undamaged - commercially packaged tomato juice will typically carry a " Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before", or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the tomato juice will remain at peak quality.
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Storage times shown are for best quality only - after that, the unopened tomato juice's color or flavor may change, but in most cases, it will still be safe to consume if it has been stored properly, the can or bottle is not damaged and there are no signs of spoilage (see below).
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To further extend the shelf life of tomato juice, freeze it: to freeze tomato juice, store in airtight container and leave at least 1/2 inch headspace at the top, as juice will expand when frozen.
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How long does tomato juice last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 8 to 12 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only — tomato juice that has been kept constantly frozen at 0° F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does tomato juice last after being frozen and thawed? Tomato juice that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator before using; tomato juice that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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How can you tell if tomato juice is bad? If tomato juice develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
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Discard all tomato juice from cans or bottles that are leaking, rusting, bulging or severely dented.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
