How Long Should You Store Your Pantry Staples?
Take the guesswork out of your food organization dilemma!

Never make a mistake again when it comes to buying and storing food items properly with this easy guide:
All-purpose cream
Store: Store in the refrigerator.
Shelf life: 1 to 2 weeks in refrigerator
Baking powder
Store: Transfer to an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: 11/2 years. To test if baking powder is still active, place 1/2 teaspoon in 1/4 cup boiling hot water. It should bubble up if it's still good.
Baking soda
Store: Transfer to an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: 2 years. To test if baking soda is still active, pour a few drops of vinegar into ¼ teaspoon baking soda. It should bubble up if it's still good.
Bottled Salad dressings
Store: Keep unopened bottles in a cool, dry place. Once opened, put in the refrigerator.
Shelf life: 1 to 3 months in refrigerator
Bread
Store: Do not refrigerate; keep bread at room temperature. If not consuming immediately, wrap bread tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer.
Shelf life: 3 to 5 days; 2 to 3 months in freezer
Butter
Store: Wrap tightly and place in the refrigerator. If not using immediately, store in the freezer.
Shelf life: 2 weeks in refrigerator; 1 year in freezer
Cake mix
Store: Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: 9 months
Cakes
Store: Store cake in an airtight container.
Shelf life: 1 to 2 days at room temperature; 3 to 5 days in refrigerator; 2 to 3 months in freezer
Canned Meat
Store: Transfer opened meat to an airtight container. Place in the refrigerator with lid tightly closed.
Shelf life: 1 year in refrigerator
Cereal
Store: Transfer to an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: 1 year
Cheese
Store: Wrap in wax or parchment paper, place in a zip-top bag, and place in the refrigerator.
Shelf life: 1 month in refrigerator
Ground coffee
Store: Transfer to an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: 1 year, unopened; 2 to 4 weeks, opened
Tips were published as part of a feature in the August 2014 issue of Yummy magazine. Minor edits were made by the Yummy.ph editors.


Chicken Barbecue Marinades To Try The Next Time You Feel Like Grilling

This Local Ice Cream Brand Offers Delicious Ice Cream For As Low As Ten Pesos

A Plant-Based Chickenjoy Could Soon Be Added To Jollibee's Menu
