Meghan was the Food Editor for Kitchn's Skills content. She's a master of everyday baking, family cooking, and harnessing good light. Meghan approaches food with an eye towards budgeting — both time and money — and having fun. Meghan has a baking and pastry degree, and spent the first 10 years of her career as part of Alton Brown's culinary team. She co-hosts a weekly podcast about food and family called Didn't I Just Feed You.
updated May 1, 2019
comments
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
You opened a can of pumpkin purée for cooking last week and now you’re wondering, Is this stuff still edible? Especially since it can be hard to detect off odors in squash puree! Here we’ll tell you how long your fresh and canned pumpkin will last in the fridge and freezer, plus a few ideas for using it up before it goes bad.
How Long Does Pumpkin Purée Last Once Opened?
Once opened, a can of pumpkin lasts five to seven days in the fridge. It is best to move the leftover purée from the can to an airtight container with a date and label. Should you push the best-by date of your pumpkin purée to day eight, be sure to examine the purée for any signs of mold and give it a deep sniff before proceeding to use or toss. To extend the life of your pumpkin purée, move it to the freezer where it will stay fresh for up to three months.
Read more: 3 Ways to Freeze Pumpkin Puree
These same store and shelf life rules apply to homemade pumpkin purée as well.
What About Expired Canned Pumpkin?
Let’s say you have a can of pumpkin purée from last fall still in your pantry and you’re wondering if it is cool to use it. First check the can’s best-by date. But also know that best-by dates are the manufacturer’s guidelines for how long the pumpkin will be “best,” not how long they will be safe to eat. Discard cans of pumpkin that are busted or bulged and past their expiration date.
