How Long Can Hummus Be Left Out of the Fridge and Still Be Good to Eat?

As a college student without a refrigerator, I left the hummus I bought from Costco out of the fridge for about two days. Everything tasted perfectly fine, no problems at all. Funny thing is, it was 8 days past its expiration date! My reasoning is that if the Mediterranean folks were able to store stuff for weeks in a desert, I should be fine. However, storage in a drawer and keeping the lid closed as much as possible helped.

Hummus and Proper Storage

Proper storage is essential to ensure the safety and quality of hummus. Keeping hummus refrigerated is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. According to food safety guidelines, hummus should not be left out of the fridge for more than two hours to avoid exposure to harmful bacteria and microbes.

Refrigerating Hummus

When storing hummus in the refrigerator, make sure it is kept in an airtight container at or below 40°F (4°C). Using an airtight container helps minimize exposure to air, which can lead to faster spoilage. Unrefrigerated, shelf-stable hummus such as canned varieties can stay at room temperature for extended periods but should be refrigerated within two hours after opening.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Hummus

Store-bought hummus can last in the fridge for up to seven days after opening, as bacterial growth is slowed down in cold temperatures. However, it's important to note that the expiration or best before dates on store-bought hummus do not matter once the product is opened. Homemade hummus, on the other hand, typically does not last as long as store-bought due to the absence of preservatives. Some brands may use high-pressure processing to preserve and pasteurize the product, which can extend its shelf life.

Your Experience

As a college student who had to manage without a refrigerator, I tested the limits of hummus durability. I left the hummus I bought from Costco out of the fridge for approximately two days, and it still tasted perfectly fine with no signs of spoilage. I reasoned that if the Mediterranean people could store food for weeks in a desert, I could get away with it. However, I took precautions by keeping the hummus in a cool drawer and ensuring the lid remained tightly closed. Although my method worked, it is not recommended for everyday storage and can pose health risks.

Conclusion

To ensure safety and maintain quality, it is always best to refrigerate hummus as soon as possible after opening. Proper storage is crucial, especially when lacking a refrigerator. Understanding the guidelines and being cautious can help prevent potential health risks and food waste.

Further Reading

How Long Does Hummus Last After It's Opened? Does Hummus Need to Be Refrigerated? Ultimate Guide How Long Does Hummus Last in the Fridge?

Storage Guidelines for Hummus

Refrigerate Hummus: Store in an airtight container at or below 40°F (4°C). Unrefrigerated Hummus: Canned hummus can stay at room temperature for extended periods, but refrigerate within two hours of opening. Open Hummus: Store-bought hummus can last up to seven days in the fridge after opening. Discard if there are signs of spoilage or an off smell.

Choosing the Right Container for Hummus

To prevent the air from getting in and causing your hummus to spoil faster, it is essential to store it in an airtight container. This keeps the air out and helps maintain the freshness of your hummus. Using a container that is properly sealed also helps to prevent any odors from your fridge from affecting the flavor and aroma of your hummus.

Store-Bought Hummus and Its Lifespan

Store-bought hummus can last up to seven days in the fridge after opening. Expiration or best before dates do not matter once the product is opened. However, as with any food, it is important to check for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or change in texture. Homemade hummus, on the other hand, typically does not last as long as store-bought due to the absence of preservatives. Some brands may use high-pressure processing to preserve and pasteurize the product, which can extend its shelf life but is not common in all store-bought options.