Does sugar go bad?

Sugar doesn't spoil: kept dry, white, brown and powdered sugar last indefinitely. For the best quality, the USDA suggests using them within 18 to 24 months of opening.

Food	Pantry
White sugarSugar never spoils; best within 2 years of opening.	IndefinitelyOpened: 18–24 months
Brown sugar	IndefinitelyOpened: 18–24 months
Powdered sugar	IndefinitelyOpened: 18–24 months

Fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder, freezer at −18 °C (0 °F). Freezer times are for best quality: food kept frozen stays safe, but slowly loses taste and texture. These times are USDA guidance, not a guarantee. When in doubt, throw it out.

How to tell if sugar has gone bad

Clumps or a hard block: moisture got in. It's still good once broken up.
Insects, especially ants or pantry moths: throw it out.
Mold, a bad smell or a change of color mean water or food got into it: throw it out.

How to store sugar

Keep sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry cupboard.
Keep brown sugar airtight: it hardens as it loses moisture.
Keep powdered sugar away from moisture and strong smells, which it absorbs.
Use a dry spoon every time.

Can you freeze sugar?

There's no need for white or powdered sugar. Brown sugar can be frozen in an airtight bag to keep it soft; let it thaw before using it.

Questions

How do you soften hard brown sugar?

Put it in an airtight container with a slice of bread or apple overnight, or microwave it briefly with a damp paper towel over it.

Does sugar expire?

No. The date is about quality. Sugar kept dry and free of insects is safe indefinitely.

What about sugar substitutes?

Sugar substitutes keep about 2 years unopened and indefinitely once opened, kept dry.

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