If you’ve ever stumbled upon an old pack of Twizzlers hiding in your pantry, you may have wondered whether they’re still safe to eat. Twizzlers are a popular chewy candy known for their long shelf life, but like all foods, they can lose their freshness over time. Understanding how long they last, how to store them properly, and how to tell if they’ve gone bad can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
In this blog, we discuss Twizzlers' shelf life, signs of spoilage, storage tips, and common questions people ask about Twizzlers expiration.
How Long Are Twizzlers Good For?
Twizzlers are a chewy, licorice-type candy that doesn’t spoil as quickly as many other snacks because they’re low in moisture and contain preservatives to extend freshness. Generally, unopened Twizzlers can last 6–12 months from the manufacturing date if stored properly. While they rarely have a strict “expiration” date, you’ll usually see a “best by” date, which indicates when the candy is at its peak flavor and texture.
Once opened, Twizzlers are best enjoyed within a few weeks. Exposure to air can cause them to dry out, harden, and lose their chewy consistency.
What Happens When Twizzlers Go Bad?
Although Twizzlers don’t “expire” in the same way dairy products do, they can go bad or lose quality over time. Signs include:
- Texture changes: The candy becomes tough, hard, or overly sticky.
- Flavor degradation: The sweetness and fruity or licorice flavor may fade.
- Color fading or discoloration: Indicative of age or exposure to heat/light.
- Rare spoilage: Mold growth or sour odors, often from damaged packaging or moisture exposure.
Factors That Affect Twizzlers' Shelf Life
Several conditions can shorten or extend how long Twizzlers stay fresh:
- Storage environment: Heat and humidity accelerate staleness.
- Packaging condition: Sealed packs last longer than opened ones.
- Flavor variety: Filled or chocolate-coated Twizzlers may have a slightly shorter shelf life than plain varieties.
Best Practices for Storing Twizzlers
To keep your Twizzlers tasting fresh and chewy:
- Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- After opening, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent air exposure.
- Avoid refrigeration or freezing unless necessary, as cold temperatures can alter the texture.
How to Tell If Twizzlers Are Still Good
Before eating older Twizzlers, check for these signs:
- Visual cues: Mold, unusual spots, or faded color.
- Smell: Any sour, rancid, or chemical odors indicate spoilage.
- Texture: Excessive hardness, stickiness, or graininess means they’re past their prime.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to discard the candy.
Conclusion
Twizzlers don’t technically expire, but can go stale or lose their quality over time. Proper storage and paying attention to the “best by” date help you enjoy Twizzlers at their best. Always check the smell, texture, and appearance before eating older packs to ensure they’re safe and enjoyable.
FAQs on Twizzlers Expiration
What’s the difference between “best by” and “expiration” dates on Twizzlers?
Best by” refers to peak quality, while Twizzlers rarely have a strict expiration date for safety.
How long do unopened Twizzlers last?
Typically, up to 6–12 months from the manufacture date if kept in a cool, dry place.
How long do opened Twizzlers stay fresh?
Best eaten within a few weeks; reseal or store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
How can you tell if Twizzlers have gone bad?
Look for mold, discoloration, sour odors, or a hard, dry texture.
Can expired Twizzlers make you sick?
It’s rare; usually, expired Twizzlers are just unpleasant to eat unless they show visible spoilage.
Why do Twizzlers get hard over time?
They lose moisture, and sugar crystallizes, making the texture tougher.
Do Twizzlers have preservatives to extend shelf life?
Yes, ingredients like potassium sorbate and citric acid help prevent spoilage and maintain freshness.
