Do Candy Canes Last Forever? Do Candy Canes Go Bad?

Short answer? Not really — but here’s the full story.

If you’ve ever unpacked your holiday boxes in July and found a rogue candy cane looking suspiciously flawless, you’re not alone. These minty swirls are practically the cockroaches of the candy aisle — still shiny, still striped, still weirdly appealing. But do they actually expire?

The Short Answer: No, But They Last a Long Time

Candy canes don’t technically expire, but they do degrade over time. Like my Uncle Mike, you may notice the peppermint snack you found under the seat of your Flame Red Dodge Ram looks pretty tasty! Thanks to their high sugar content and low moisture, they're naturally shelf-stable. In general, a properly stored, unopened candy cane can last up to 3 years without going bad.

🧪 What Happens When Candy Canes Get Old?

• Texture changes – They can get sticky, gritty, or weirdly soft.

• Color fading – Bright red stripes can fade to pink or white.

• Flavor loss – Peppermint oil evaporates, leaving behind bland sugar.

🧊 How to Store Candy Canes So They Last

Want them to survive more than one Christmas? Follow these tips:

• Keep them cool and dry – Humidity is the enemy.

• Avoid sunlight – Light degrades color and texture.

• Leave the wrappers on – Once exposed to air, aging speeds up fast.

🤢 Are Expired Candy Canes Safe to Eat?

Yes — mostly. Old candy canes usually aren’t harmful, but:

• If they’re sticky, cloudy, brittle, or taste off, toss them.

• If they smell “off” or are yellowing, it’s a hard no.

🎉 What to Do With Old Candy Canes

Even if they’re not snackable, don’t waste them:

• Crush them into peppermint sprinkles for cookies, brownies, or cupcakes.

• Use as decorations — in wreaths, centerpieces, or ornaments.

• Stir into hot cocoa for a minty twist.

Final Verdict: Do Candy Canes Go Bad?

Not really — at least not in the traditional sense. But the older they get, the more likely they are to lose their charm. If you’re stocking up, just remember: cool, dry, and sealed = happy candy cane.

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