How long can a Twinkie really last?

Anywhere from 25 days to 100 years, give or take a decade...

Twinkies have been called "the perfect food" and "the snack cake that never says die." But just how long can these indestructible treats last?

Official estimates put the shelf life of a Twinkie at 25 days. However, there are unconfirmed reports of Twinkies lasting for months or even years. One urban legend even claims that a Twinkie found in a coal mine was still edible after 100 years. While it's impossible to verify these stories, it's clear that Twinkies are designed to last. The key to their longevity is a combination of preservatives and a sealed wrapper that keeps out oxygen and moisture.

So, if you're looking for a snack that will last, reach for a Twinkie. Just don't expect it to be as fresh as the day it was made.