Of course, all foods last for a shorter period of time if they are not stored properly. But, like a lot of other sweets, there is usually a "best by date" which is simply the last day that a manufacturer will vouch for optimal quality and flavor, not safety. Because of this distinction you may use your cocoa even after its best by date has lapsed. Unopened containers of cocoa will remain fresh for slightly longer than opened ones, but since the definition of bad is very relative with this delicate powder the table is presented as such.

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

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

If the cocoa has remained dry and looks fine, then your sense of taste is the best way to tell if it is still good. When cocoa is no longer good, the chocolate taste in the powder disappears. If your cocoa has gone bad, check our chocolate substitute page for ideas on what to use in your recipe instead.

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 Cocoa to extend its shelf life?

Cocoa should be kept in a cool dry place like the pantry. The original container is fine, as long as it is properly re-sealed after each use. Like most other foods, it is susceptible to oxidation so the less it is exposed to air the better. Also remember to use a clean spoon or pour your powder into your cup to avoid cross contamination. In humid environments, it may form clumps within the dry powder and expire sooner.

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

Interesting facts about Cocoa:

Homemade hot chocolate can be made from melted chocolate with the addition of milk and sugar. Whereas, homemade hot cocoa is made from cocoa powder with the addition of milk and sugar. Whether making hot chocolate or hot cocoa, the best taste comes from high quality Premium Chocolate .

How long is Cocoa good for when prepared in a dish?

How long does cocoa last? That depends. how long does milk last? In general, all food lasts only as long as the quickest expiring ingredient in the dish.

What are our shelf life resources?

In determining how long Cocoa 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 Cocoa.

*An important note about expiration dates...

Although the Cocoa 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!