Do Starbursts Expire? Are Your Starbursts Still Fresh?

Starbursts expire and have an expiration date, but it’s important to note that it primarily indicates the point at which the candy’s flavor and freshness start to decline. If you store Starbursts under appropriate conditions, they can remain consumable for up to one to two years.

You might be in the mood for sugar, and you’ve just discovered the old candy bucket from Halloween hidden in the kitchen. There are some gorgeous dark chocolates and some white chocolates, but it is not what you’re after.

Keep digging until you find some chewy candy; put it on the side, and then you’ll find soft candy. One of your most loved treats is Starbursts. You come across a few and take them all to gobble.

However, you discover you’ve missed the expiration date on the box. Oops…

This article will discuss everything you need to be aware of about expiration dates on Starbursts.

Do Starbursts Expire?

Starbursts are a candy manufactured by MARS. 

Although the company doesn’t give an expiration date for their products, they do include the date of freshness.

The freshness expiry date is usually one year after the candy is sent out. MARS informs us that this candy is the best and freshest if consumed in the first year after removal from the manufacturing facility.

In certain situations, Starbursts may go bad earlier or even last longer.

If the candy appears uncolored, spongy, or extremely dry when it is removed from the container, likely it’s been stored for too long.

If candy is left to sit over a long period of time, it begins to degrade and its taste will diminish over time. Additionally, as the candy hardens within the packaging, it becomes harder to peel it off the candy.

Take a look at the following list to discover the factors that can help you decide whether or not Starbursts are safe to eat and the best way to determine whether a specific batch of Starbursts is worth eating.

Texture

If candy is improperly stored, there is a chance that the texture might be rough and grainy in appearance;  is recommended to stay clear of these sweets.

If it seems like you wouldn’t be able to chew on these, avoid them.

The softness of candy is an important gauge of how fresh the candy is.

Color

Starbursts are typically bright and exciting colors. If you look at a Starburst and find it discolored with a white coating, an excellent general rule is to dispose of it.

The coloration could be due to mold, which is not something you’d want to consume. This can lead to stomach discomfort and possibly food poisoning. Be aware when the color seems odd.

Smell

The scent of candy could be a clue. You’ll notice a pleasant fruity scent when you open a can of candy, particularly a starburst. If you don’t detect, any scent is a sign that the shelf-life is long gone.

If you crack open the candy and discover no smell, throw it out because it’s old.

Taste

Starbursts will have a rich fruity taste. If you experience a bitter or sour taste try a different piece or bin it.

What Happens If You Eat Expired Starburst?

Food scientists conduct many hours of study to develop a sustainable candy that lasts across a variety of spaces. While certain conditions can cause a shorter shelf life, candy is among those items that endure for years.

If you’re concerned about the quality of your Starbursts, they should be stored in a dry, cool area and inspected at least every couple of months. It is also recommended to avoid storing in areas that have high humidity. This can extend the life of your sweets.

There is a chance that you will experience digestive issues that might not be as delicious or cause stomach discomfort. However, generally, eating expired candy won’t cause any health risks.

Be aware that as candy gets rotten, it can produce mold you don’t want in your body.

If you purchase Starbursts that have expired or discover some older ones in your cabinets, you’re better off tossing them out rather than eating them.

How Can You Increase The Shelf Life Of Starbursts?

You can extend the shelf longevity of your sweets by making sure to store them properly. If it is from an unopened bag placing it in a sealed container is a good idea. Keeping your lid on the candy dish will help to ensure that your candy will last longer.

It is recommended to store your Starbursts in the coolest place you can. While they’re not likely to spoil in a hurry but keeping them in a hot environment can result in their sugar content being destroyed.

To properly store your Starbursts, put them in an area in the rear of your cabinet or pantry in a place where they’ll remain cool and dry.

Frequently Asked Questions