How long does a pack of tofu last? A Comprehensive Guide to Tofu Shelf Life

October 30, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that unopened shelf-stable silken tofu can last for months, even up to a year? The answer to how long does a pack of tofu last? depends heavily on its type, whether it's been opened, and how it's stored.

Quick Summary

The shelf life of tofu varies depending on its type and packaging, with unopened refrigerated tofu lasting weeks and shelf-stable versions up to a year. Once opened, all types of tofu should be stored properly in the refrigerator and used within a few days.

Key Points

Shelf-stable tofu: Unopened silken tofu in an aseptic box can last for 6-12 months in the pantry.
Refrigerated tofu: Unopened water-packed tofu lasts for about one to two months in the fridge, typically around a week beyond the sell-by date.
Opened tofu: Once opened, all tofu must be refrigerated and used within 3-5 days, stored submerged in fresh water that is changed daily.
Signs of spoilage: Discard tofu if it has a sour smell, slimy texture, discolored appearance, or if its package is bloated.
Freezing tofu: Tofu can be frozen for up to 3-5 months, but this will alter its texture to become spongier and more absorbent.
Proper storage is key: Storing opened tofu in a container of fresh water and changing it daily is critical for preserving its freshness and safety.

Tofu is a versatile and nutritious plant-based protein staple that can be used in everything from stir-fries to smoothies. However, its high moisture content means proper storage is crucial for both food safety and quality. The exact lifespan of a pack of tofu hinges on several factors, primarily its packaging and whether it has been opened.

Understanding Tofu Shelf Life

Not all tofu is created equal, and its packaging offers the first clue to its longevity. Most commercially available tofu falls into two main categories: refrigerated and shelf-stable. Each has a different lifespan and storage requirement.

Refrigerated Tofu

This is the most common type found in the refrigerated section of supermarkets. It's packed in a water-filled plastic tub and must be kept chilled at all times. The best-by date on the package provides the most accurate guideline for its quality and freshness while unopened.

Unopened: An unopened package of refrigerated tofu will typically last for about one to two months, often remaining safe for a few days to a week past the printed date if handled correctly.
Opened: Once the package is opened, the tofu's shelf life drops significantly. Unused portions must be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container completely submerged in fresh, clean water. The water should be changed daily to prevent bacterial growth. With proper storage, opened refrigerated tofu should be used within three to five days.

Shelf-Stable (Aseptic) Tofu

Often of the silken variety, shelf-stable tofu is heat-treated and vacuum-sealed in a sterile, airtight box. This allows it to be stored at room temperature in a pantry for an extended period.

Unopened: An unopened box of shelf-stable tofu can last for six months to a year, depending on the brand.
Opened: Once opened, shelf-stable tofu becomes perishable and must be treated like its refrigerated counterpart. Transfer it to a container with fresh water, refrigerate, and use it within three to five days.

How to Tell if Tofu Has Gone Bad

Even with proper storage, tofu can spoil. Using your senses is the best way to determine if it's still safe to eat.

Check for an off odor. Fresh tofu has a neutral smell. If you notice a sour, fermented, or rotten odor, it's time to discard it.
Inspect the color. Fresh tofu is a creamy, off-white color. If it has turned tan, yellowish, or brownish, or if you see any signs of mold, it is spoiled.
Feel the texture. Fresh tofu is smooth to the touch. A slimy or sticky film on the surface indicates that it has gone bad.
Observe the packaging. If the original water-filled tub or aseptic box appears bloated, this is a strong sign of bacterial growth and gas production, and the tofu should be thrown out immediately.

Extending Tofu's Life with Freezing

Freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage, but it will change the texture of the tofu, making it firmer, chewier, and more porous. This makes it fantastic for absorbing marinades and sauces but less suitable for recipes that require a soft, smooth texture, such as silken tofu for desserts.

How to Freeze Tofu

Drain the tofu block and press out as much excess water as possible using a paper towel or a tofu press.
Slice or cube the tofu into desired portions.
Place the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer the frozen tofu to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
For best quality, use frozen tofu within three to five months.

Thawing Frozen Tofu

Thaw frozen tofu overnight in the refrigerator.
Once thawed, it can be squeezed again to remove additional water. Do not refreeze thawed tofu.

Tofu Shelf Life Comparison Table


Storage Method	Unopened Duration	Opened Duration	Notes
Refrigerated Tofu (in water)	Up to 1-2 months (by use-by date)	3-5 days (in new water)	Change water daily for opened tofu.
Shelf-Stable Tofu (aseptic box)	6-12 months (in pantry)	3-5 days (in fridge, in water)	Once opened, must be refrigerated.
Cooked Tofu	N/A	3-5 days (in airtight container)	The shelf life depends on other ingredients.
Frozen Tofu	Up to 5 months	Up to 5 months (best quality)	Will change to a firmer, chewier texture.

Conclusion

From the pantry to the freezer, tofu's shelf life is surprisingly versatile, provided you follow the right storage guidelines. While unopened packages can last for weeks or even months, an opened pack is perishable and should be used within a few days. Remember to always trust your senses—if it smells or looks off, it's best to err on the side of caution and toss it out. By knowing the proper storage techniques for each type, you can minimize waste and enjoy this healthy protein for a long time. For more information on food safety, you can consult reliable sources like the OSU Extension Service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Once opened, a pack of tofu should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container completely submerged in fresh water. It will last for 3 to 5 days, provided you change the water daily to keep it fresh.

For refrigerated tofu, it may be safe to eat for a few days past its 'best by' or 'sell by' date if it has been stored correctly. However, you should always check for signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, slimy texture, or discoloration, before consuming.

Yes, freezing tofu significantly changes its texture. The freezing process creates ice crystals that expand and create a spongier, firmer, and chewier texture once thawed. This makes it excellent for absorbing marinades and sauces but unsuitable for dishes requiring a soft texture.

You can tell if tofu is bad by a few key indicators: a sour or rotten smell, a slimy texture on the surface, or a change in color to tan, yellow, or brown. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard it.

Cooked tofu, whether on its own or as part of a dish, will typically last for 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Its longevity also depends on the shelf life of any other ingredients in the dish.

After opening, store unused tofu in an airtight container filled with enough fresh, clean water to cover the tofu completely. Refrigerate it and change the water every day to keep it fresh and safe to eat.

Unopened shelf-stable (aseptic) tofu, which is usually silken, can last for 6 months to a year in the pantry. In contrast, unopened refrigerated tofu typically lasts for about one to two months and must be kept in the fridge.