Sour Cream
The answer
Opened sour cream lasts 1–3 weeks in the fridge. Do not freeze it.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 1–3 weeks safe window
Freezer (0°F) Does not freeze well best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard if there is mold, pink tint, or an off smell — mold roots spread through soft dairy.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Opened 1–3 weeks Does not freeze well
Unopened Printed date + ~1 week Does not freeze well
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Mold anywhere in the tub
✕ Pink or gray tint
✕ Sharp sour smell beyond normal tang
FAQ
Is watery liquid in sour cream a bad sign?
No, a little separation is normal — pour it off or stir it in. Mold or color changes mean discard the whole tub.