Sourced from USDA, FDA and FoodSafety.gov
How long does food last?
Search any food to see exactly how long it lasts in the fridge, pantry, or freezer — plus signs of spoilage.
Most-asked foods
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How long does milk last?
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How long does eggs last?
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How long does cooked rice last?
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How long does raw chicken last?
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How long does bacon last?
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How long does bread (sliced) last?
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How long does deli meat last?
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Fridge guidance
Most cooked food lasts 3–4 days. Raw chicken just 1–2. Hard cheese months. Browse our complete fridge times.
Freezer extension
Most foods last 6–12 months frozen at 0°F. Quality drops over time but safety holds nearly indefinitely.
Pantry surprises
Honey lasts indefinitely. White rice 10+ years. Olive oil 18 months. Canned goods often years past 'best by'.
Frequently asked
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Most cooked leftovers (chicken, rice, pasta, soup) last 3–4 days in the fridge when refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking. Always reheat to 165°F (74°C).
Is the 'sell by' date when food expires?
No. 'Sell by' is a guideline for the store. 'Best by' indicates peak quality, not safety. 'Use by' is the closest to a true date — but most foods are safe past it if stored properly. Use sensory checks (smell, texture, color) as the final test.
Can you eat food past the expiration date?
Most foods are safe to eat past printed dates if stored correctly. Eggs last 3–5 weeks past sell-by. Milk lasts 4–7 days past sell-by. Canned goods often last years past best-by. When in doubt, smell, look, and trust your senses.
What's the source of BestByDates's data?
We compile shelf life data from the USDA FoodKeeper App, FDA Food Storage Guidelines, and FoodSafety.gov. These represent best quality periods, not absolute safety limits.