How Long Do Tortillas Last?

When it comes to a staple in many cuisines, the question of “How long do tortillas last” often arises.

Whether you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired dishes or simply love the versatility of these flatbreads, understanding their shelf life is crucial to ensuring delicious, safe meals.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence how long tortillas last, from the type of tortilla to the storage methods used.

You’ll never have to second-guess your tortillas’ freshness again!

Answer

Tortillas last about a week in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer.

Stack of flour tortillas on a rustic board

How long do tortillas last? Depending on the storage condition, traditional corn tortillas often last for around 8-10 days after the expiration date.

When refrigerated, they will last for 7-8 weeks, and in the freezer for 6-8 months. To ensure that they last longer, it is best to freeze them in batches with parchment paper between each one to prevent them from sticking together.

Flour tortillas will typically last in the pantry for 7 to 10 days after the expiry date and in the refrigerator or freezer for 6 to 8 weeks or months, respectively.

To make sure that the tortillas stay good for longer, proper storage is key.

How to tell if tortillas are bad

Knowing when tortillas have gone bad is important in order to avoid any food poisoning or other health risks.

To determine if your tortillas have gone bad, there are three indicators to look out for. Firstly, check for any musty odors or discoloration when you stick your nose in the bag or inspect the tortillas with your eyes.

Secondly, the texture of the tortillas should be soft and pliable. If they are becoming stiff, this is a sign they have gone bad.

And finally, watch out for any sliminess or unusual spots, or yellowish discoloration, which indicates the tortillas have gone bad.

If any of these signs are present, it is safest to throw out the tortillas and not consume them. To extend their shelf life, it is best to freeze and reheat the tortillas.

Learn how to tell if bread is bad also!

Type of Tortilla	Pantry	Refrigerator	Freezer
Unopened Flour Tortillas	2-4 weeks	6-8 weeks	6-8 months
Opened Flour Tortillas	1 week	3-4 weeks	6-8 months
Unopened Corn Tortillas	1-2 weeks	6-8 weeks	6-8 months
Opened Corn Tortillas	1 week	4-6 weeks	6-8 months
Homemade Flour Tortillas	1-2 days	1 week	2-3 months
Homemade Corn Tortillas	1-2 days	1-2 weeks	2-3 months

How to Store Tortillas

Storing tortillas is simple and straightforward. Whether you buy store-bought tortillas or make your own, there are a few steps you must take to maintain the freshness and quality of the tortillas.

For store-bought tortillas, the best way to store them is inside the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer. They need to be kept at a stable temperature, so if you are storing them in the refrigerator, make sure you avoid the door.

Moisture can damage tortillas, so make sure your pantry is completely dry before storing them. If you open the package, make sure you wrap them tightly before putting them back in the pantry, fridge, or freezer.

For homemade tortillas, store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Separate the tortillas while they are still warm and cover them with a soft cloth.

After they cool down, wrap them with paper towels and place them in freezer bags or airtight containers. Put them in the fridge or freezer and make sure the temperature is stable.

Place parchment paper between the tortillas and seal them in a plastic bag or airtight container. Slide them into the freezer and store them for up to 4 weeks.

Can you freeze tortillas?

Yes, you can freeze tortillas, but it is important to follow the label instructions and to ensure that the tortillas are wrapped in either aluminum foil or freezer bags to protect them from cold air.

If done correctly, the tortillas can be stored in the freezer for up to 8 months, and when thawed they will still taste fresh and soft.

Check out my post on how to freeze bread for some helpful tips on freezing your tortillas. I also have an abundance of other posts about freezing foods such as how to freeze strawberries or how to freeze blueberries.

Types of Tortillas and Their Differences

There are various types of tortillas and they differ depending on the ingredients used to make them.

The most common types are wheat tortillas, which are made from finely ground wheat flour, and corn tortillas, which are made from nixtamalized maize.

Both tortillas may vary in their color depending on the type of corn used. Additionally, other types of tortillas can be made from ground wheat flour and oil and can vary in size from 6 to over 30 centimeters.

Furthermore, the taste of the tortillas may vary depending on the location. Tortillas are used to make a variety of different dishes, such as burritos, tostadas, enchiladas, and soup.

To revive stale tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, heat them briefly on a hot skillet or griddle. This will soften the tortillas and make them more pliable for use.

Generally, out-of-date tortillas are safe to eat. Beyond the best-by date, the tortillas are still edible. If they have gone bad, one can usually tell quickly.

Yes, the shelf life of tortillas varies depending on the type. Corn tortillas typically last a bit longer than flour tortillas, as they have lower moisture content. However, proper storage is key to extending the life of both varieties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how long tortillas last is essential for anyone who enjoys these versatile flatbreads in their meals.

By understanding the factors that affect their shelf life and employing the proper storage techniques, you can enjoy fresh and delicious tortillas every time.

Now that you’re well-equipped with this knowledge, go ahead and whip up your favorite tortilla-based dishes without worry!

How Long Do Tortillas Last?