Depending on the ingredients, tomato sauce, salad dressings, or mustard can last from a few months to a whole year.
Dr. Kimberly Baker, director of the Food Safety and Systems program at Clemson University (USA), explains that the expiration date reflects a decline in product quality rather than safety. This means that you can still consume expired condiments, but their color, taste, and texture may not be at their best.
“Therefore, in addition to using them before their expiration date, opened condiments should be stored in the refrigerator. The temperature should remain between 4-5 degrees Celsius or lower to ensure product freshness,” the expert said.
Depending on temperature and usage time, sauces can last from a few months to several years. (Photo: Lisa Cherkasky/The Washington Post).
- Tomato Sauce: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), opened tomato sauce can be used for up to 6 months. Baker explains that the longer shelf life is due to the high acidity of the product, which makes it difficult for pathogens to thrive.
- Mustard: Also according to USDA recommendations, an opened jar of mustard can last for one year if stored in the refrigerator, thanks to its low sugar concentration. Dr. Bryan Quoc Le, a food consultant and author of the book Answering 150 Food Science Questions, notes that mustard seeds contain allyl isothiocyanate, a compound that gives the condiment its spicy flavor. Additionally, this compound has natural antibacterial properties, helping the product remain unspoiled for a long time.
- Mayonnaise: This is a favorite product among families and is commonly used on sandwiches and salads. Baker states that each jar of mayonnaise can last for two months after opening, provided it is stored correctly.
- Salad Dressing: This product can be used for one to three months if kept in the refrigerator, but it still depends on the acidity level of the ingredients.
In general, low-acid sauces (like creamy dressings) have a shorter shelf life, while high-acid products (such as vinaigrettes) can last for several months.
- Hot Sauce: Compared to other products, hot sauce can be used for up to one year after opening. The reason is that the high vinegar content in the condiment can ferment, creating natural preservatives that combat harmful bacteria.
Hot sauce has a shelf life of up to one year due to its high vinegar content, which helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. (Photo: iStock)
How to Identify Spoiled Condiments
Although sauces and condiments can last longer than other foods, if you notice any sour, fishy smells, mold, or a slimy texture on the surface, you should discard them.
Additionally, contamination of condiments can also reduce their shelf life. To prevent this, food experts advise users to ensure that the container lid is always tightly sealed and to clean it after each use.
