How long after purchase will packaged bread remain good to use?

Packaged, store-bought bread typically keeps 5-7 days at room temperature, 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator, and up to 3 months in the freeezer.  The amount of time bread keeps depends on a number of variables, including the ingredients used, temperature, humidity, storage container, and storage location. Basic breads prepared with only a few ingredients (such as flour, water, yeast, and salt) generally do not keep as long as yeast breads enriched with eggs, butter, and milk. Breads prepared with a starter also keep longer than many basic yeast breads.

 

Preservative-free breads such as organic and fresh-baked varieties typically won't keep as long as conventional, commercially packaged breads,  Preservative-free breads should generally be consumed or frozen within a few days of purchase.

 

Look for signs of spoilage such as mold. Stale bread is hard and dry.