Hostess Expiration Codes

Julian Date Code How To Read a Julian Date Code The Julian Date represents the date of production For example: 144021 (this is NOT the item code or SKU) The last 1 or 2 digits (XX) indicate the shift (these numbers have no bearing on the expiration date). Nov 16, 2012  Hostess Cupcakes Do Have an Expiration Date. Hostess is going out of business. They're blaming the unions because their employees are saying they can't live on the huge pay cut that would keep the business operating. I don't want to see anyone lose their jobs.

Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty ImagesPackage dates can be confusing when deciding whether or not to eat a product that is past the printed date. Cake icing packaging may have an expiration date. That is the date after which the maker says the icing shouldn't be used. There might be a packaging date, saying when it was packed, or a best-used-by date, which is when it should be used by for peak quality.

After that, flavor and texture may begin to deteriorate, although it can still be safe to use, according to the United States Department of Agriculture's food safety and inspection service. Prepare From MixDry cake icings to be prepared from a mix are typically sold in boxes or pouches. These can be kept for about eight months, according to Lesley Fisher and Lydia Medeiros, writing for the Ohio State University Extension website.

The important thing about obtaining the maximum shelf life for icing and frosting mixes is storing them in a cool, dark and dry place. Moisture can make the powdered mix form clumps, and can encourage spoilage. Storing the mix on a shelf that the sun hits part of the day can cause condensation inside of the package due to the temperature changes. Leftover icing prepared from the mix should be refrigerated promptly. Squeeze From TubeThere are two primary types of cake icing sold in easy-squeeze tubes, standard decorating icing and a gel style. Both of these can last an indefinite amount of time, according to EatByDate.com.

When the standard type of cake decorating icing goes bad, it will get hard and not function correctly. The gel doesn't work correctly when it spoils either. It gets too runny to hold its shape.

When using this type of icing, it is best to test it on a paper towel or saucer before using directly on your cake. Correct Handling Is KeyHow frosting is handled makes a difference in its shelf life, according to Fisher and Medeiros. Pantry and cabinet temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit and below make it more likely that cake icing will reach its full shelf life potential. If there is a window in the pantry, cover it to help temperature and moisture levels remain consistent.

Always use clean utensils and put away leftover icing in a clean, tightly covered container. If it looks, smells or tastes off, discard it.