How Long Does Fresh Hummus Last? (Answered!)

Hummus gets consumed by the kilogram on a weekly basis in my house. We all absolutely love it. And it seems like most of the world do too! Hummus is an extremely popular dip made from cooked chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.

It has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries and has gained popularity around the world, especially among us vegans. Hummus is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or even as a protein source in salads and sandwiches.

While hummus is known for its delicious taste and numerous health benefits, it is important to know how long it lasts to avoid food waste and potential health risks. Improper storage and consumption of hummus can lead to bacterial growth, which can cause food poisoning and other health problems.

Therefore, in this article, I will explore how long fresh hummus lasts and how to properly store and consume it to ensure its safety and freshness.

How Long Does Fresh Hummus Last?

So, how long does fresh hummus last? Well, the shelf life of hummus is typically around 5-7 days when stored in the fridge (refrigerator). However, this can vary based on a few factors such as the ingredients used, storage conditions, and the quality of the ingredients.

One way to tell if hummus has gone bad is to look for signs of spoilage such as an off-smell, mould growth, or a change in texture. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the hummus to avoid the risk of food poisoning.

A common question that arises when it comes to hummus shelf life is whether it is safe to eat 2-week old hummus. The answer to this is that it depends on the storage conditions and the quality of the ingredients used. If the hummus has been stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and shows no signs of spoilage, it may be safe to eat. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and discard hummus that has been stored for too long.

There are several factors that can affect the shelf life of hummus. The first is the quality of the ingredients used. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will result in a longer shelf life compared to older or lower quality ingredients. The storage conditions also play a crucial role in determining the shelf life of hummus. Proper storage in an airtight container in the refrigerator can extend the shelf life of hummus by several days.

Additionally, the use of preservatives can also affect the shelf life of hummus. Commercially produced hummus usually contains preservatives to extend its shelf life, while homemade hummus may not. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients used and the storage conditions when making and consuming hummus.

How Long Can You Leave Hummus in the Fridge?

Hummus can be safely stored in the refrigerator for a certain period, but its shelf life can vary depending on various factors, including the ingredients used and the specific conditions in your fridge. Here are some general guidelines for storing hummus in the refrigerator:

1. Store-Bought Hummus: If you have store-bought, commercially packaged hummus, it typically comes with a “use by” or “best by” date. You should follow this date for the best quality. However, many store-bought hummus varieties can last for about 1 to 2 weeks after the “use by” date if properly refrigerated and unopened. Once opened, consume it within about 7-10 days for optimal freshness.
   
2. Homemade Hummus: If you’ve made homemade hummus, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Homemade hummus may have a shorter shelf life compared to store-bought varieties, typically lasting 3 to 5 days if stored properly.

Storing Hummus

Preserving homemade hummus can be easy if done properly. One of the best ways to preserve homemade hummus is to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can help keep out moisture and other contaminants that could cause the hummus to spoil. It is important to use a clean and dry container before storing the hummus.

Hummus can last up to one week in the refrigerator before opening. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness. To extend the shelf life of homemade hummus, it is recommended to store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, such as the back of the bottom shelf.

Freezing hummus is also a great way to extend its shelf life. Hummus can be frozen for up to 4-6 months in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When reheating frozen hummus, it is recommended to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then let it come to room temperature before consuming.

When it comes to storing hummus, the best container is one that is airtight and leak-proof. Glass containers or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are great options. Avoid storing hummus in metal containers as it can cause a metallic taste in the hummus.

Natural preservatives such as lemon juice and vinegar can be used to extend the shelf life of hummus. Adding a little bit of lemon juice or vinegar to the hummus during the preparation process can help preserve the hummus for longer periods of time.

Overall, proper storage and the use of natural preservatives can help extend the shelf life of hummus, ensuring that it stays fresh and safe for consumption.

My Sun Dried Tomato Hummus is an amazing homemade hummus for you try!

How Do You Know When Hummus Has Gone Bad?

Hummus, like many other food products, goes bad over time. To determine if your hummus has gone bad, you can use your senses of sight, smell, and taste. Here are some signs to look for:

1. Check the Expiration Date: First things first, start by looking at the expiration or “use by” date on the packaging. If the hummus is past this date, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not consume it.
   
2. Visual Inspection: Examine the appearance of the hummus. Fresh hummus should have a smooth, creamy texture and a consistent color throughout. If you notice any of the following visual signs, it may have gone bad:
   
   • Mold or discoloration: If you see any green, gray, or black spots on the surface, it’s a clear sign of spoilage.
   • Separation: If the oil and water separate from the rest of the mixture, it may indicate spoilage or improper storage.
     
3. Smell Test: Give the hummus a sniff. Fresh hummus should have a mild, pleasant aroma, typically with notes of garlic, tahini, and chickpeas. If it has a sour, off, or unpleasant odor, it’s likely gone bad.
   
4. Taste Test: If the hummus passes the visual and smell tests, you can take a small taste. If it tastes sour, has an unusual or off-putting flavor, or if the texture is gritty or slimy, it’s best to discard it.
   
5. Texture: Fresh hummus should have a smooth and creamy texture. If it feels grainy, slimy, or has an unusual texture, it’s a sign that it may be spoiled.
   
6. Packaging: If the packaging of your hummus is damaged or compromised, it may have allowed contaminants to enter, which can lead to spoilage. Always check for any punctures or tears in the packaging.

Proper storage of hummus can also help prolong its shelf life. Store it in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C), and keep the container sealed tightly to prevent air and contaminants from getting in.

Remember that hummus can vary in ingredients and preservatives, so it’s essential to trust your senses and the expiration date when determining if it’s still good to eat. When in doubt, it’s safer to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

Troubleshooting Hummus

While hummus is a simple and straightforward recipe to make, there are a few common issues that can arise when making it. Here are some of the most common issues with homemade hummus and how to fix them:

1. Grainy texture: This can happen if the chickpeas are not blended enough or if there is not enough liquid in the recipe. To fix this, add more liquid (such as olive oil or water) and blend for a longer period of time.
2. Fizzy taste: This can happen if the hummus is left out too long or if it has gone bad. To avoid this, make sure to store your hummus in the fridge and consume it within a reasonable amount of time.
3. Mouldy hummus: This can happen if the hummus is not stored properly or if it has been contaminated. To avoid this, store your hummus in an airtight container in the fridge and consume it within a week.
4. Tongue tingling: Some people may experience a tingling sensation on their tongue after eating hummus. This is usually caused by the high levels of citric acid in the lemon juice that is often used in hummus recipes. While this is not harmful, it can be uncomfortable for some people.

In addition to these common issues, there are a few other queries that people may have about troubleshooting hummus. For example, some people may wonder why their hummus has a bitter taste. This can happen if the tahini is old or rancid. To avoid this, make sure to use fresh tahini and taste it before adding it to the recipe.

Overall, while there are a few common issues that can arise when making hummus, they are usually easy to fix with a few simple adjustments to the recipe or storage methods.

Can you Eat Hummus 10 Days Out of Date?

The “use by” or “best by” date on food products is a guideline provided by the manufacturer to ensure the best quality and flavour of the product (and cover themselves in case of litigatoin). Consuming a product a few days past its date is generally safe for many foods, including hummus, as long as the product has been stored properly and there are no visible signs of spoilage.

If your hummus is only 10 days past its “use by” date and it has been stored in the refrigerator at the recommended temperature, and there are no signs of mold, unusual odors, or off-putting textures, it may still be safe to eat. However, it’s crucial to use your senses (sight, smell, and taste) to assess the hummus’s condition:

1. Visual Inspection: Check for any signs of mold, unusual discoloration, or separation of oil and water. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to discard the hummus.
   
2. Smell Test: Give the hummus a sniff. If it has a sour, off, or unpleasant odor, it’s a potential indicator that it has spoiled.
   
3. Taste Test: If it looks and smells fine, you can take a small taste. If it tastes sour, has an unusual or off-putting flavor, or the texture is gritty or slimy, it’s best not to consume it.

Remember that the 10-day guideline is a rough estimate, and the safety and quality of the hummus depend on factors such as its ingredients, preservatives, and storage conditions. If you have any doubts or concerns about the hummus’s freshness and safety, it’s safer to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.