How long is dry dog food good after the expiration date

Does Dog Food Expire? 4 Tips to tell if dog food has gone bad!

Last Updated on August 3, 2023 by Dogs Vets

Does Dog Food Expire?

Processed dog foods are convenient options for most pet parents. However, even though they have been preserved to stay long, they still come with an expiration date. While some food labels contain best by dates, others have expiration dates to indicate their longevity.

And you might be wondering: is there a difference between best by and expiration date? Lets read more about that in this article.

Best by vs expiration dates?

As a responsible dog parent, you always check the best by or expiration date before buying your dog food, right? You might think the two terms mean the same.

Wrong! Expiration dates and best-by dates mean two separate things.

Of course, both indicate the shelf life of a product. But usually, a best by date is used to indicate when a particular food item is no longer in optimum condition for consumption.

This doesnt mean the food is totally bad. It simply means that after that date, the food will begin to lose its essential qualities such as taste and nutritional value.

On the other hand, the expiration date represents the foods last date of safe consumption.

After this date, it is expected that the dog food should be discarded.

How to store dog food

Most dry dog foods come with instructions to store in a cool and dry place. Warm temperatures can make the food moist and cause it to deteriorate. Likewise, you can store canned foods in a cool, dry place.

If you buy dog food in bulk, consider distributing them in storage bags made of high-quality dog treat packaging material.

However, if there is any leftover canned food, keep it in a refrigerator; otherwise, throw it away.

Unfortunately, it might be impossible to store kibble in its original packaging properly. Kibble can be stored in a container without taking it out of its bag.

You can also store kibble in a refrigerator.

Recently, frozen foods for dogs started to be on the rise, and that a very good alternative to store while and their nutritional values, without neglecting the taste.

How to tell if dog food has gone bad

Remember to always check the expiration date of the dog food before buying. Once it has passed the expiration date, it is no longer safe for consumption!

But it is possible for your dog food to go bad before its expiration date and here are some signs that your dog food has gone bad.

Weird smell

Every brand has a unique smell for its products. So, if your dogs food smells strange, its probably gone bad.

Obvious mold growth

Of course, mold growth signifies that the food is moist and unfit for consumption. Discard the whole bag or can if you notice any mold in it.

Changes in texture, color, or shape

Kibble is typically brown, but once it starts to turn green or black, it is no longer edible.

Signs of bugs

Never feed food that contains bugs or other insects to your pet. Even when the bugs are dead, its safer to dispose of them than feed them to your pet.

Is it still safe for dogs to eat expired dog food?

No, it is not safe for dogs to eat expired food. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there. So, people feed their dogs foods that have passed their expiration dates by a few days or weeks.

This is unhealthy! You can still provide your dog food when its a few days past its best before date. However, your dog shouldnt eat any expired food! Why?

Dog food that is expired loses its nutrients. So, if you feed your pet such food, it might begin to suffer from malnutrition. Besides, dog food that has expired begins to spoil since its preservative value has decreased.

Spoilt food contains toxins such as mycotoxin and aflatoxin that can make your pet sick. It doesnt matter if the food still looks or smells good.

Dispose of any dog food that has passed its expiration date. If you notice the food growing mold even when it hasnt passed its expiration or best by date, dispose of it immediately.

But what about the best by date? The best thing to do is: As soon as food has passed its best-by date, let your dog eat it within a week. After a week, discard any leftovers.

In short

Never feed your dog expired food. Always check the expiration or best before dates before picking them up from the store. It is better to buy food that is close to its manufacturing date. And if you notice any signs that the food is bad after opening it, discard it immediately.

Questions People Ask (FAQs)

How long can you store dry dog food in the refrigerator?

Generally speaking, dry dog food that has not been opened is good for up to 18 months, whereas wet canned food is good for up to two years from the date of purchase. Of course, once a food item is opened, its shelf life decreases from months to weeks or even days as a result (depending on whether it is wet or dry).

How can you tell if your dogs food has gone bad?

An overpowering sour or rotten odor can be detected.

• It appears like there are moisture, mold, or pests in the area.
• The bag has reached the end of its shelf life.
• The meal has been subjected to high temperatures or high humidity.
• Your dog refuses to eat, or he displays signs of illness or pain following a meal.

What happens if my dog consumes dog food that is expired?

If your dog accidentally consumes damaged or outdated dog food, you may notice signs of general gastrointestinal irritation such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Secondly, on the other hand, Your dog could become critically ill, depending on the pathogen. If bacteria such as E. coli are left untreated, they can cause a life-threatening infection.

How long does an open bag of dry dog food last?

How long does a bag of kibble that has been opened last? A typical dry kibble product will have a shelf life of around a year when stored properly.

However, after you open the bag, you only have about 2 weeks to complete it before the oils in the kibble meal begin to become rancid and ruin the food. Oils turn rancid when they are exposed to oxygen, a process known as oxidation.

How long does dry dog food stay fresh if it hasnt been opened?

12-18 months is a reasonable period of time.

Pet food producers provide expiration or best by dates in order to ensure the safety of your dogs food supply. The shelf life of unopened dry pet meals ranges between 12 and 18 months, whereas the shelf life of unopened canned pet foods ranges between 2 and 3 years from the date of manufacturing.

Is it okay to store dry dog food in the refrigerator?

It is possible to store canned dog food in the refrigerator for up to two days after it has been opened. All that is necessary is to use a plastic can lid (which many veterinary clinics provide) or a tightly fitting aluminum foil temporary lid to prevent the food from drying out.

Where is the expiration date on Purina dog food?

In addition, the bags expiration date will be printed on the other side of the bag.

Is there an expiration date on Purina One dog food products?

Our Purina ONE dog food, if indoor, has an 18-month shelf life when stored properly. We hope you have found this material to be useful.

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How Long Does Canned Dog Food Last After Expiration Date

Do you know how long canned dog food lasts after its expiration date? Many pet owners are unsure of how to store and use canned dog food, leading to confusion and uncertainty around the safety of their pets food. In this article, well look at how long canned dog food can last after its expiration date, as well as tips for proper storage and usage. Well also discuss the importance of staying up-to-date with your pets nutrition and the potential risks associated with expired canned dog food.

Once opened, canned dog food typically lasts 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Types of Canned Dog Food

Canned dog food is a type of pet food that is available in sealed cans for convenience and long-term storage. It is a popular choice for dog owners who want to provide their canine companions with quality nutrition. Canned food can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, grains, and fruits. It can also contain added vitamins and minerals for extra nutrition. The most common types of canned dog food are wet or pate-style foods, which contain higher amounts of moisture than dry kibble. There are also specialty canned foods available for specific dietary needs, such as grain-free or low-fat options.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of canned dog food depends on the type of product and how it is stored. Most wet or pate-style foods have a shelf life of up to two years when stored in a cool, dry place. Specialty canned foods may have shorter expiration dates due to the more delicate nature of their ingredients. Its important to check the expiration date on all cans before feeding them to your pet to ensure they are still safe for consumption. Cans that are dented or leaking should be discarded immediately as they may contain bacteria or other contaminants that could make your pet ill.

Storage Tips for Canned Dog Food

Canned dog food is a convenient way to provide your canine companion with the nutrition that he needs. However, it is important to store it properly to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Here are some storage tips for canned dog food:

Firstly, store the cans in a cool, dry place such as a cupboard or pantry. This will help to keep the food fresh for longer and prevent spoilage. Avoid storing the cans in direct sunlight or near any sources of heat as this can cause the cans to rust.

Secondly, once you open the can of dog food, its important to transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This will help to keep the food fresh and prevent bacteria from growing on it. Make sure you discard any leftover food after three days.

Thirdly, if you have purchased a large quantity of canned dog food and dont plan on using them soon, you can freeze them. This will help to preserve their quality and extend their shelf life. When freezing canned dog food, make sure you label them with the date they were purchased so you know when they need to be used by.

Finally, when purchasing canned dog food, always check that the cans are undamaged and not bulging or dented as this could indicate that there is an issue with its contents or that bacteria has contaminated it. If possible, try to buy smaller quantities at a time so that you can rotate through them more quickly and ensure that they stay fresh for longer.

What to Do if You Find Mold or Rotten Meat in Canned Dog Food

If you find mold or rotten meat in canned dog food, it is important to take action immediately. The food should be discarded immediately, and all other canned food from the same batch should be inspected for any signs of contamination. If there are any signs of mold, discoloration, or bad smells, this food should also be discarded.

It is also important to clean and disinfect the area where the contaminated food was stored. This will help prevent any further contamination of other pet food products in the same area.

Once the contaminated food has been discarded and the area has been cleaned, it is important to contact the manufacturer right away in order to report the problem. The manufacturer may require that a sample of the contaminated food be sent back for testing before they can determine what caused the contamination and take corrective action.

It is also important to monitor your pets health after consuming contaminated food as they could suffer from an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea and/or dehydration if they have ingested spoiled or moldy food. It is best to contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any changes in your pets health after consuming potentially contaminated dog food.

In order to prevent future contamination of dog food products, it is important to always inspect canned foods for signs of spoilage before feeding them to your pet. Always discard cans that are bulging or leaking as these can indicate spoilage due to bacteria or fungal growths inside the container. Additionally, always check expiration dates on canned foods before feeding them and discard any expired products as well as those with a foul odor or visible signs of spoilage.

Freezing Canned Dog Food to Increase Its Shelf Life

Freezing canned dog food is a great way to extend its shelf life. The freezing process helps to preserve the food, which can help it stay fresh for longer periods of time. This can be especially beneficial for owners who buy large amounts of canned dog food at once and want to make sure it doesnt spoil. When freezing canned dog food, its important to remember that the amount of time it will stay fresh will vary depending on the type of food being frozen and how long it has been stored.

For example, canned wet dog food can typically be stored for up to six months in the freezer before it begins to lose its flavor and nutritional value. On the other hand, canned dry dog food can usually be stored in the freezer for up to one year before needing to be replaced. Its important to remember that these times may vary depending on the type of food being stored and how long it has been in storage.

When freezing canned dog food, its important to make sure that the cans are sealed tightly and that any air pockets have been eliminated. This will help keep out any moisture or bacteria that could potentially cause spoilage or contamination. Its also important to make sure that the cans are labeled with their expiration dates so they can easily be identified when needed.

Once frozen, cans should be placed into an airtight container or bag that prevents moisture from entering and helps keep out any unpleasant odors from forming. Frozen cans should also not be stacked directly on top of each other, as this could cause them to break open and release their contents prematurely. Freezing canned dog food is a great way to extend its shelf life and ensure that your pet always has access to fresh, nutritious meals.

What to Do With Leftover Canned Dog Food

When you purchase canned dog food, it can be difficult to know exactly how much your pup will eat. You may end up with a few cans of leftover food that your pup just isnt interested in. Rather than let these cans of food go to waste, there are a few things you can do with the leftover canned dog food.

The first option is to donate the cans of food to a local animal shelter or rescue group. Many shelters and rescues are always in need of donations, and they would be happy to accept any unopened cans of pet food that you dont need. This is a great way to give back and help out animals in need.

Another option is to store the unopened cans of dog food for later use. As long as the cans remain unopened and are stored properly, they should remain safe for your pups consumption at a later date. Make sure to store them in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Check the expiration date on each can before feeding them to your pup so you know theyre still safe for consumption.

Finally, if you dont have a use for the leftover canned dog food, you can always recycle the cans! Most aluminum pet food cans have recycling symbols on them that indicate which type of aluminum they are made from, making it easy for recycling centers to process them properly. If possible, rinse out the inside of each can before sending them off for recycling so no residue remains inside after processing.

Rather than let those extra cans of dog food go unused or end up in landfills, there are plenty of options available for what you can do with leftover canned dog food! Donating them or storing them away for later use are both great options if you dont want to recycle the cans right away.

Is It Safe to Feed Expired Canned Dog Food?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. Generally, it is not recommended to feed your dog expired canned food. This is because the food can become unsafe due to spoilage and can cause your pet to become ill. If the food was kept in a cool, dry place and is not too far past its expiration date, then it may be safe for your pet to consume.

It is important to inspect the canned food before feeding it to your dog. If there are any signs of spoilage such as discoloration or an off odor, then it should not be consumed. Additionally, if the can has dents or bulges this could be an indication of bacteria growth and should not be fed either.

If the canned food you have is within a few months of its expiration date, it may still be safe for your pet to eat. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and discard any expired canned dog food. Furthermore, make sure you check the labels of any canned food you purchase for your pet as some foods are labeled with expirations dates while others are not.

Feeding your pet fresh and safe foods will help ensure their health and well-being so always make sure you check expiration dates before giving any type of food to your pup!

Factors That Affect the Shelf Life of Canned Dog Food

The shelf life of canned dog food depends on a number of factors, including the type of food, how it is stored, and how it is prepared. The quality and freshness of the ingredients used in the food can also have an effect on its shelf life. Proper storage, handling, and preparation are essential for preserving the nutrient content and quality of canned dog food. Here are some factors that can affect the shelf life of canned dog food:

Type of Food

The type of canned dog food will determine its shelf life. Wet foods tend to have a shorter shelf life than dry foods. Wet foods typically last up to two years when stored properly, while dry foods can last up to three years or more. Canned dog foods made with fresh ingredients may have a shorter shelf life than those made with preserved ingredients since they contain fewer preservatives.

Storage Conditions

The way that canned dog food is stored can also affect its shelf life. Canned dog food should be stored in cool and dry conditions away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. It should also be kept in an airtight container to prevent spoilage from oxygen exposure.

Preparation Method

The way that canned dog food is prepared also affects its shelf life. If the food is not cooked properly, it can lead to bacterial growth which can reduce its shelf life significantly. Proper cooking techniques should always be used when preparing canned dog food to ensure maximum freshness and safety for your pet.

Ingredients

The quality and freshness of the ingredients used in canned dog foods are also important considerations when determining their shelf life. Fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables should be used whenever possible as these provide higher levels of nutrients than processed or preserved ingredients do. Canned dog foods containing preservatives may have a longer shelf life than those without preservatives but these may contain fewer nutrients as well as potentially harmful additives that could be dangerous for your pets health if consumed over an extended period of time.

By considering all these factors when purchasing canned dog food, you can ensure that you are providing your pet with safe and nutritious meals while minimizing waste due to spoilage or expiration dates passing quickly due to improper storage or handling conditions..

Conclusion

Canned dog food is a convenient and nutritionally balanced option for feeding our canine companions. It is important to pay attention to the expiration date on the can and to store the food in a cool, dry place. After the expiration date has passed, it is not recommended to feed it to your dog. This is because the nutritional value of canned dog food may have diminished and bacteria may have begun to grow, making it unsafe for consumption.

It is best practice to discard any canned dog food that has passed its expiration date. If you are unsure if canned dog food is still safe for consumption, throw it away as a precautionary measure. Lastly, its important to note that homemade cooked meals should not be stored like canned dog food; they should be consumed within two days after they are made.

In conclusion, understanding how long canned dog food lasts after its expiration date can help you make sure your pup is eating safe and nutritious meals. Taking the time to read through labels and keeping an eye on expiration dates will help keep your pup healthy and happy for years to come!