How Long Does Shortening Last?
Storage method
Shortening — solid — pantry, from date of purchase
1 to 2 years in the pantry
- Cool, dry pantry or cupboard
- Applies from date of purchase · solid
Pick a valid date to calculate the recommended use-by window.
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 shortening
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry | from date of purchase | 1 to 2 years |
| Pantry | after opening | 6 to 12 months |
Common questions about shortening
- How long does shortening last in the pantry?
- 1 to 2 years in the pantry, counted from the date of purchase, per the USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset. Assumes a cool, dry pantry away from light.
- How long does shortening last after opening?
- Once opened — pantry: 6 to 12 months, per the USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset.