As a food science expert with a focus on perishable goods, I can tell you that the shelf life of chocolate can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of chocolate, its composition, the storage conditions, and whether it's unopened or opened.

Unopened chocolate can last for a year or more if it's stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it's best to consume chocolate within a few months to ensure freshness and flavor. However, if the chocolate is exposed to heat, light, or moisture, it can spoil more quickly, leading to issues like fat bloom (a white, powdery appearance on the surface) or even mold.

To prolong the life of your chocolate, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you're not going to eat it soon, you can also store it in the refrigerator or freezer, but be aware that this can affect the texture due to temperature changes.

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Pure chocolate can last for two years or more without presenting any acute health risks, but it's likely to change in texture and become less appetizing after about 12 months. Given enough time, some bars could even become so dry and hard as to be inedible (or at least a danger to your teeth).read more >>