Expert: Carl Copeland - 1/15/2008

Question
I was wondering how long pasties will keep unfrigerated? (going camping and thought they'd be good for lunches if possible)
I've heard that since they're thoroughly cooked and the pastry seals them, they will be fine. (like pork pies etc)
The ones I make have no animal products at all (vegetable and spices; with flour and non-dairy margarine pastry)

Answer
Christina,
My father said I would learn something new every day. I never heard of a pasty before but it sure sounds good.

Christina, I searched a number of websites for storage information for pasties with no success.  However if you are thinking about leaving them unrefrigerated for a long period of time I believe that would be a mistake.  I do understand that after being cooked they will stay warm for a couple of hours.

Depending on the  outside temperature during the time of your camping trip you might be okay if temperatures are 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, if this is the case with the ingridients listed I would give your vegetable paties 1-3 days max.

For more Food storage info please visit

http://www.Food-Storage Info.com

Take care and happy camping,
Carl