Skittles are a popular candy loved by many, but have you ever wondered if they have an expiration date? If you’ve had a bag of Skittles sitting in your pantry for a while, you might be curious about their shelf life.

But do Skittles expire?

Yes, Skittles and other candies can expire or go bad, although they generally have a long shelf life. Most packaged candies, including Skittles, come with a “best by” or “expiration” date printed on the packaging. This date indicates the period during which the candy is expected to be at its best quality in terms of taste, texture, and freshness.

However, it’s important to note that candy doesn’t usually become unsafe to eat after its expiration date. Instead, it might lose its flavor, texture, and color over time. Factors such as exposure to heat, humidity, and sunlight can also affect the quality of the candy and cause it to degrade more quickly.

If the Skittles are well-sealed in their original packaging and have been stored in a cool, dry place, they might still be perfectly fine to consume even after their expiration date. If the candy looks and smells normal, it’s likely safe to eat. But if you notice any unusual changes in color, texture, or taste, it’s best to discard them.

Always use your best judgment when consuming food products past their expiration dates, and if in doubt, it’s safer to avoid eating candy that appears to have significantly deteriorated.

What’s the Shelf Life of Skittles?

Like most candies, Skittles have a shelf life that is influenced by several factors. The most important of these factors is the amount of sugar in the candy. Sugar is a natural preservative, which means that candies with high sugar content tend to have a longer shelf life than those with lower sugar content.

According to the manufacturer, Skittles have a shelf life of two years from the date they are made. However, this doesn’t mean that they will go bad immediately after two years. Skittles can last much longer than two years if they are stored properly.

Factors That Affect the Shelf Life of Skittles

As mentioned earlier, the amount of sugar in Skittles plays a significant role in their shelf life. However, there are other factors to consider as well. One of the most important factors is the temperature at which they are stored. Skittles should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High temperatures can cause the candy to melt or become sticky, which can lead to spoilage.

Humidity is another factor that can affect the shelf life of Skittles. Excessive moisture can cause the candy to become soft and sticky, which can make it difficult to consume. To prevent this from happening, it is important to store Skittles in an airtight container.

Signs That Skittles Have Gone Bad

While Skittles have a long shelf life, they can still go bad if they are not stored properly or if they are exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Here are some signs that Skittles have gone bad:

• The candy is discolored or has an off-color
• The candy is hard and difficult to chew
• The candy is sticky or clumps together
• The candy has a strange or unpleasant odor
• The candy tastes different than usual

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw the Skittles away and purchase a new bag.

How to Store Skittles Properly

To ensure that Skittles have the longest possible shelf life, it is essential to store them properly. Here are some tips on how to store Skittles:

• Keep Skittles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Store Skittles in an airtight container to prevent exposure to moisture.
• Do not store Skittles near sources of heat, such as radiators or ovens.
• Avoid storing Skittles in the refrigerator or freezer, as this can cause condensation to form on the candy.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Skittles stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Skittles do have a shelf life, but they can last much longer than the expiration date if they are stored properly. The amount of sugar in Skittles is the primary factor that affects their shelf life, but other factors such as temperature and humidity also play a role.

If Skittles are stored properly, they can last for several years without going bad. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, hardness, stickiness, strange odor, or taste. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw the Skittles away and purchase a new bag.