Shelf Stable Foods

Black peppercracked, dried, commercially bottled or purchased in bulk

2–3 years in the pantry from the date of purchase.

Pantry

from purchase: 2–3 years

Fridge

No USDA guidance

Freezer

No USDA guidance

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeperHow to read these times

Common questions

How long does black pepper (cracked, dried, commercially bottled or purchased in bulk) last in the pantry?

2–3 years from the date of purchase.

How can I tell if black pepper (cracked, dried, commercially bottled or purchased in bulk) has gone bad?

Throw it out if it smells off, feels slimy or sticky, shows mold, or has changed color. Storage times assume it was handled safely and kept cold the whole time.