How Long Does Formula Last?
Storage method
Formula — prepared — pantry
No official duration listed
- Cool, dry pantry or cupboard
- Applies general guideline · prepared
USDA tip: Should be discarded after use-by date.
No official duration listed for this combination — a date range can’t be calculated. Try another storage method above, or check the package label.
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper (v128, snapshot 2026-07-24) · About this data · Report an issue
FoodStorageCheck — official USDA FoodKeeper guidance · foodstoragecheck.com
All official guidance for formula
Every storage entry the USDA FoodKeeper dataset lists for this food, exactly as published (v128, snapshot 2026-07-24). “No official duration listed” means the source does not provide a number for that combination — not that the food lasts forever.
| Where | Condition | Official time | Notes from the source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pantry | general guideline | No official duration listed | Should be discarded after use-by date. |
| Pantry | after opening | 1 hour | — |
| Refrigerator | after opening | 1 day | — |
Common questions about formula
- How long does formula last in the refrigerator?
- 1 day in the refrigerator, after opening, per the USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset. Times assume a refrigerator at or below 40 °F (4 °C).
- How long does formula last after opening?
- Once opened — pantry: 1 hour; refrigerator: 1 day, per the USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset.
Two reminders that apply here
Keep the fridge at 40 °F (4 °C) or below.Refrigerator times in this dataset assume a refrigerator held at or below 40 °F. An appliance thermometer is the reliable way to check.
The two-hour rule.Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90 °F / 32 °C) should be discarded, per FoodSafety.gov. Storage windows assume food was refrigerated promptly.