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The range of yoghurt is varied. Storage conditions and optimal temperature conditions are indicated by the manufacturers on the product packaging. To ensure the long-term preservation of its taste properties by yoghurt, these recommendations must be followed exactly.
The nuances of storing yogurt:
- the expiration date indicated on the yoghurt packaging can only be taken into account for products with unopened packages;
- yoghurts containing preservatives can be stored in almost any conditions, even at room temperature (it is important not to store food near heat sources and under the influence of direct sunlight);
- natural yogurt can only be stored in the refrigerator;
- a container with yogurt can be frozen (this method is often used to make “homemade” ice cream);
- under the influence of low temperatures, the nutritional value and taste characteristics of yoghurt do not change;
- you cannot freeze and thaw yogurt again (the consistency of the product will change dramatically, and the taste will deteriorate);
- it is better to store yogurt in the refrigerator in glass jars (in a cardboard package, the product will deteriorate faster);
- “Live” yoghurt cannot be stored at room temperature (such a product should only be stored chilled or frozen);
- if liquid has separated from the yogurt, then the product begins to deteriorate, and you should not eat it;
- after buying yoghurt, you should not store it for a long time at room temperature, and then put it in the refrigerator (the product must be put in the refrigerator immediately, otherwise temperature drops can shorten its shelf life);
- if there is no lid for the container, then it is better to seal the jar of yogurt with foil (polyethylene is not recommended in this case);
- if yogurt has been stored in a sealed package for more than two weeks, then it is better to use it as an additional ingredient for baking or dessert (if there are no signs indicating spoilage of the product);
- if a plaque appears on the surface of the yogurt, then the product is spoiled, and you cannot eat it even if it seems fresh when removing the mold;
- heat-treated yoghurts are not too susceptible to temperature conditions and their changes (there are much less nutrients in such products than in natural ones, so this nuance must be taken into account when buying them);
- frozen yoghurt can be stored for several months.
How much and at what temperature to store yogurt
The shelf life of yoghurt depends not only on whether the packaging was opened or not, but also on some of the nuances of the composition. Traditionally, all types of this product are divided into two categories: yoghurt made with and without sourdough. In the first case, the shelf life of yoghurt will be 5-7 days, in the second version, the storage period can be up to three months.
The ratio of temperature and shelf life of yoghurt:
- at temperatures from +4 to +6 degrees, yogurt is stored for 5-7 days if the product is natural;
- at any temperature, including room conditions, yoghurt can be stored for 14-30 days if it is not natural (“yoghurt product”);
- if yoghurt is made independently on the basis of a special ferment, then at temperatures up to +7 degrees it can be stored for 6 days.
Shelf life of different types of yoghurt in the refrigerator:
- drinking yoghurt is stored for a maximum of 10 days;
- Plain yogurt and low-fat foods are stored for 1-2 weeks;
- yogurt with fruit pieces should be eaten within 7 days.
If the package of yogurt is opened, then regardless of the type of product, it can be stored for only 7 days. It is recommended to eat it within the first 5 days. An open container of yoghurt should only be stored in a cold place.
The most important thing about storing yogurt
- When storing yogurt, it is important to observe the temperature regime. After all, it is made on the basis of living cultures that retain their properties for a limited time.
- The shelf life of store-bought yogurt due to the presence of preservatives and home-made yogurt differ significantly. Live homemade yogurt can be stored for no more than 3 days.
- Fruit-added yogurts cannot be stored for a long time, unlike a pure natural product without sugar, which does not change its taste and properties for a relatively long time.
How to store homemade yogurt
Made from natural sourdough, homemade yogurt is a healthy drink that can replace a good breakfast. You can add fruit, honey, corn flakes or chocolate drops to taste. How long to store homemade yogurt depends on how it is prepared.
Pure yogurt made in separate jars can be stored under a tightly closed lid for no longer than 3 days in the refrigerator. A ready-made yogurt dish should be eaten during the day, its shelf life does not exceed 12 hours. Opened homemade yogurt in a jar is also stored for no longer than 12 hours.
Many housewives prepare this delicious product, after which they transfer it to jars. How long you can store yogurt prepared in a slow cooker depends on the temperature in the refrigerator.
At a temperature of +3°C, it will remain fresh for 3 days, and at +10°C, the shelf life of an open homemade yogurt does not exceed a day.
How long to keep open yogurt
After buying a bag of drinking yogurt, it is not always possible to consume it at a time. How long open yogurt can be stored in the refrigerator depends on the amount of preservatives added by the manufacturer. But since the taste of this product deteriorates after a few hours, it is best to consume it within 3 hours after opening the package.
How to store yogurt starter
You can find high-quality sourdough for making yogurt on the shelf with this product. How much and how to store the starter for yogurt is always indicated on the package.
Unused leftovers can be placed in the freezer and stored at -18°C for up to 2 years.
This does not affect the taste of the finished product at all, and how long the finished yogurt can be stored later.