What is the shelf life of these ice packs? Do they eventually expire or go bad?
320608
That's a good question. I have several....a large one, a medium one and three small ones. The small ones are several years old and I've never had a leak or a single problem with them. The larger ones are new (bought within the year) and so they're probably too new to spring a leak or develop a problem. So, based on my experience, they can last for many, many years (with proper care, of course). For example, I wouldn't drop them from a 2-story building or throw them under a bus. :)
1661797
It depends on the temperature that you store them at. regular room temp they are good for between 5-6 years. in the fridge they are good for 7 years. In the hot desert sun they are good for a year or less.
2151517
I have had mine for a bit now too. And Haven't used them. I don't think they go bad. as long as they don't get warm your good.
1324900
I did. They will spoil eventually, and last longer if stored at a colder temp....with such a large container, I needed them to last as long as possible!
107166
My bag says to store in a cool dry place, and that they keep "best" in fridge or freezer. If you are thinking 25 years, then they would probably need to be frozen. The expiration date on my bag was stickered over, so I can't tell what it is. Maybe the manufacturer would have more precise info on shelf life.
926367
They are freeze dried so should last indefinitely if sealed. If left open, moisture could get in and cause spoilage.
601246
We use dry ice. It keeps the packs frozen. The packs themselves also last three hours or so for my mom. Ice won't re-freeze them but will cool them enough to be of use again
1932712
i keep mine in freezer. that way I dont have to worry about expiration date
2197087
Hello Penny, I keep these in the freezer and refill my mason jar in my larder every couple of weeks, I am no sure how long they can be kept in the freezer but sometimes I reach into the bag for a quick cold sample on my way out the door. I think they could last in the freezer for months. Hope this helps...
1123998
I'm traveling and don't have original packaging with me. I've used them for five years a box at a time and never had a problem. If they have an expiration I'm source it's at least a year.
1820868
I believe there should be an expiration date on the package. I would say you could keep them for a while at room temperature. After a week I would put them in the frig. The package is usually eaten up by then though for me. Hope this helps. :)
1700317
I buy them in bulk and put them in the freezer. I'm not sure how long they will last in the bag.
1160012
I'm not sure they have an 'expiration ' date. They should remain good as long as they are sealed in the foil packets.
266649
Didn't see an expiration date but my past experience says they are good for several years when stored properly. Too dry can make them brittle, too moist will shorten their life.
1191479
I don't think they would last 9 hours. I use all 4 ice packs with an insulated bag. I even put the bag in the fridge the night before and pack the ice packs before leaving. I've found them still cool after 5 hours, but not enough to help the food.
1766330
There are expiration dates on them, they can be unrefridgerated until opened...I keep them in fridge, like them cold. Not crazy about taste but thats me....also didnt agree with stomach, but again, thats me..
1636499
They have an expiration date so just drink them before that... I received mine on ice but not frozen.