In an age where consumers are more aware than ever of the health issues posed by food which has not been stored or packaged properly, there can be a degree of paranoia over how long some food staples can be kept for. However, in some cases, throwing away an open bottle of oil or vinegar after only a few months is not only wasteful but unnecessary. Below are some common storecupboard condiments and a guide to how long they can be kept - provided the general storage rule of cool, dark place is followed.
In all cases, any item which develops an odour, shows signs of deterioration or mould growth or which discolours significantly, should be discarded. It is also a good idea to mark bottles with the date they were opened.
Olive Oil
Unopened, a bottle of olive oil will keep for 2 years, however extra virgin olive oil, if not kept in the dark, will deteriorate more quickly. Olive oil can be refrigerated without causing deterioration although it does tend to solidify. It re-liquifies quickly at room temperature without any ill effect on quality.
An opened bottle, provided it is kept in the dark (a cupboard will suffice) with the lid on as firmly as possible, will generally keep for 18 months.
Other Oils
Canola oil, corn oil, sesame oil and peanut oils will all keep for 12 months once opened, whereas walnut oil and truffle oil are both best disgarded after 6 months. They are all best kept in a storecupboard or pantry.
Vinegar
The process by which vinegar is prepared and the acidic nature of vinegar results in a product which does not expire. It can sediment, but this has no effect on the safety of the product, only the quality.
Common Sauces
The following sauces, once opened, should be refrigerated, and refer to commercially manufactured items only.
- Garlic paste - 12 months
- Anchovy Paste - 12 months
- Soy Sauce - 2 years
- Chili sauce - 6 months
- Ketchup - 6 months (1 month in the pantry)
- Pesto - 3 days
- Steak sauce - 2 years
- Worcestershire sauce - 2 years (in the pantry, not refrigerated)
- Tartar sauce - 6 months
- Mustard - 1 year (1-2 months in the pantry)
- Mayonnaise - 3-4 months
Summary
In summary, whilst manufacturers will display a best before or best-by date on packaging, once a bottle or sauce jar is open, it will be safe to consume up to the expiry date or the length of time suggesetd above. As will all foods though, sight and smell play an important part and foods will only stay safe if stored properly.
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