Does Candy Expire

Candy: the much-loved sweet treat that both kids and adults alike love to indulge in. Candy is a delicious treat that most people savor during celebrations and special occasions, such as Christmas, Halloween, Easter, and birthdays. From time to time, you may realize you have some candy left over from such an occasion and wonder whether it’s safe to consume. Does candy expire, or is it one of those foods that lasts a lifetime?

Yes – Candy Does Expire

Unfortunately, the answer is yes, candy does expire eventually. Each candy expires at different rates, and a lot influences how quickly it expires, including moisture levels, sugar content, dairy content, light, and heat. Some candies last a very long time.

How Long Does Candy Last?

As mentioned, it depends on the candy. Here’s a general look at how long each type of candy will last:

Of course, how long they last depends on the environment they are kept in. Generally, it’s best to keep candy in a cool, dark space to let them last as long as possible.

Will You Get Sick from Eating Old Candy?

Probably not. While candy does expire, it likely won’t have grown any bacteria that will lead to illness. Be aware that this isn’t always the case, as candy stored in certain environments may be subject to bacteria growth, particularly if they are out of wrapping or in a moisture-ridden environment.

The main problem with expired candy isn’t the risk of getting sick – instead, it’s that it may change color, texture, and taste. You likely won’t enjoy a candy that’s one year old compared to a fresh bag of candies bought from the store.

Signs Candy Has Started to Go Bad

Are you unsure whether you should throw out last year’s Halloween candy or eat it? Here are the signs that candy has expired and it’s best to purchase new ones:

White Coating on Chocolate

There’s a clear sign that chocolate has gone bad: a white coating. This is typically more obvious in dark and milk chocolate. You will notice small white spots or a grayish coating on the whole thing. This is called chocolate bloom and happens after fluctuations in temperature, which is why storing your chocolate correctly is so crucial!

An Odor

Most candy will smell sweet. If you notice an unusual odor from the candy, take that as a sign it’s no longer safe to consume.

The Taste and Texture is Off

Usually, there’s no danger of illness when it comes to expired candy, so it’s worth taking a small bite if you’re still unsure. If the taste and texture are off, throw it out. However, if it tastes fine and you’re enjoying it, there should be no issue eating the rest.

Mold Presence

If you notice any mold on the candy, throw it out immediately. This is bacterial growth and will likely make you ill if you consume it.

Looking for Fresh Candy?

Usually, the best option is to purchase new candy, especially if you’re buying it for a holiday season for multiple people to consume. If you’re looking for fresh, delicious candy that will delight your taste buds, you’re in the right place. Discover a range of awesome candies right here at Sweet Services, from gummy bears to chocolate to hard candies. You’ll be spoilt for choice!

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