17 Foods That (Almost) Never Expire, from Dry Beans to Honey

When it comes to food storage, expiration dates can be a bit confusing. There’s the best-by, sell-by, and use-by dates but let’s be honest, sometimes we just rely on the good old sniff test. (And hey, it’s usually pretty reliable.)

If you’re trying to stock your pantry with foods that will last for years maybe even decades you’re in luck. There are plenty of staples that, when stored properly, won’t go bad anytime soon. Whether you’re prepping for an emergency, cutting down on food waste, or just curious about how long that ancient bag of rice is actually good for, here are 17 foods that basically never expire.

1. Honey

Honey is the ultimate long-lasting food. Thanks to its low moisture content, acidic pH, and special enzymes from bees, honey inhibits bacterial growth and lasts indefinitely. If your honey hardens or crystallizes, simply place the jar in warm water and stir until it returns to liquid form.

2. Rice

White rice, basmati, jasmine, and wild rice can last for decades if stored properly in an airtight container. The exception? Brown rice it contains natural oils that make it more perishable.

3. Instant Coffee

Need a caffeine fix? Instant coffee has a very low moisture content, allowing it to last for years if not forever. Whole coffee beans and ground coffee can also last a long time, but they lose flavor over time.

4. White Vinegar

Vinegar is highly acidic, which prevents bacteria and mold from growing. As long as it’s stored in a sealed container, white vinegar will stay fresh indefinitely. Even if sediment forms, you can strain it out and keep using it.

5. Vanilla Extract

Pure vanilla extract is made with alcohol, which acts as a preservative. While the flavor may change slightly over time, it will never truly spoil. (Imitation vanilla also lasts a long time but may lose potency faster.)

6. Salt

Salt is a natural mineral that has been used for centuries to preserve food. Pure sea salt, kosher salt, and table salt last forever though iodized salt has a shorter shelf life (about five years) due to added minerals.

7. Dried Beans

Dried beans don’t spoil, but they lose nutritional value over time. They may also take longer to cook if they’ve been sitting in your pantry for years. But as long as they’re stored in a cool, dry place, they’re safe to eat.

8. Sugar

White sugar, brown sugar, and powdered sugar don’t support bacterial growth, meaning they never truly spoil. The only issue? They might harden over time, but a little moisture (or a marshmallow) can fix that.

9. Hard Liquor

Whiskey, vodka, rum, gin if it’s 80 proof or higher, it lasts indefinitely. While flavors may change over time due to oxidation, it won’t spoil. The only exception is flavored liquors, which contain added sugars and can degrade faster.

10. Dry Pasta

Dry pasta won’t mold or rot, but it will gradually lose quality. It’s best to use it within two years for optimal taste, but it will still be safe to eat long after that.

11. Freeze-Dried Fruits and Vegetables

With all moisture removed, freeze-dried produce can last up to 25 years in proper storage. Just keep it in an airtight container away from humidity.

12. Cornstarch

Cornstarch is highly shelf-stable as long as it stays dry. If stored properly, it can last forever without losing its thickening power.

13. Tinned Fish

Canned tuna, salmon, sardines, and anchovies have an incredibly long shelf life due to the vacuum-sealing process. Store them in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh for years.

14. Powdered Milk

Without moisture or fats, powdered milk can last over 10 years in a pantry. If stored in the freezer, it can last indefinitely.

15. Tea

Loose-leaf and bagged tea don’t spoil, but they lose potency over time. Darker teas, like black tea, tend to last longer than lighter varieties, like green or white tea.

16. Maple Syrup

Unopened maple syrup lasts indefinitely in the pantry. Once opened, refrigerate it to prevent mold. If mold does appear, you can boil and strain the syrup to salvage it.

17. Hot Sauce

With its vinegar and salt content, most hot sauces stay fresh for years. Just keep them in a cool, dark place. Fermented, oil-based, or fruit-based sauces may need refrigeration.