Condiment Storage Guide: What to Refrigerate and Shelf Life Tips
Condiments add flavor, character, and personality to our meals, but how many of us know how to store them properly or when to toss them? From ketchup and mustard to fish sauce and gochujang, each condiment comes with its own set of rules for refrigeration and shelf life.
Some, like honey and vinegar, last practically forever in the pantry. Others, like mayonnaise and ranch dressing, demand prime fridge space and careful attention to expiration dates.
Understanding which condiments require refrigeration can save you from spoilage and, in some cases, foodborne illness. Just because a sauce is high in salt, vinegar, or sugar doesn’t always mean it’s safe to leave out after opening.
Even those that don’t spoil easily—like hot sauce or soy sauce—can lose their flavor and color over time if left in a warm cupboard.
This guide breaks down 25 of the most popular condiments, tells you whether to refrigerate them, and explains how long they’ll stay good. Whether you’re organizing your fridge or wondering if that bottle of BBQ sauce is still safe, this list will help you make smart, tasty decisions in the kitchen—and maybe clear up some shelf space while you’re at it.
Disclaimer: This guide offers general suggestions for condiment storage and shelf life, but individual products may vary. Always check the label for specific storage instructions and expiration dates provided by the manufacturer. When in doubt, follow the packaging or discard items that show signs of spoilage.
A Guide to Shelf Life & Storage
Condiment | Refrigerate After Opening? | Shelf Life (Unopened) | Shelf Life (Opened) |
Barbecue Sauce | Yes | 1 year | 4-6 months in fridge |
Blue Cheese Dressing | Yes | 1 year | 1-2 months in fridge |
Caesar Dressing | Yes | 1 year | 1-2 months in fridge |
Chili Crisp/Oil | Optional | 1 year | 3-6 months (fridge extends) |
Dijon Mustard | Yes | 1-2 years | 6-12 months in fridge |
Fish Sauce | Optional | 2-3 years | 1 year (pantry or fridge) |
Gochujang | Yes | 1-2 years | 1 year in fridge |
Hoisin Sauce | Yes | 1-2 years | 12 months in fridge |
Honey | No | Indefinite | Indefinite (crystallizes) |
Hot Sauce (e.g. Tabasco) | Optional | 5 years | 6 months to 1 year |
Ketchup | Yes | 1 year | 6 months in fridge |
Maple Syrup (pure) | Yes | 1 year | 6-12 months in fridge |
Mayonnaise | Yes | 3-6 months | 2-3 months in fridge |
Miso Paste | Yes | 1-2 years | 1 year in fridge |
Oyster Sauce | Yes | 18-24 months | 6 months in fridge |
Peanut Butter (natural) | Yes | 6-12 months | 2-3 months in fridge |
Pickles | Yes (after opening) | 1-2 years | 1-2 months after opening |
Ranch Dressing | Yes | 1 year | 1-2 months in fridge |
Relish | Yes | 1 year | 6-9 months in fridge |
Salsa (jarred) | Yes | 12-18 months | 1 month in fridge |
Soy Sauce | Optional | 2-3 years | 1-2 years (pantry or fridge) |
Tartar Sauce | Yes | 6-12 months | 2-3 months in fridge |
Vinegar (all kinds) | No | Indefinite | Indefinite |
Worcestershire Sauce | Optional | 2-3 years | 1 year (pantry or fridge) |
Yellow Mustard | Optional | 1-2 years | 12 months in fridge |