”The Refrigeration Question: Does It Really Matter?”
Mustard is pretty resilient and often doesn’t have a “best-before” date on the bottle. It can stay good for years, but how long it lasts depends on the container: a glass jar can keep mustard fresh for about 2 years, a plastic bottle for around 1.5 years, and squeeze bottles or packets for up to 6 months. After opening, the flavor will gradually fade over time.
Although mustard’s high acidity helps it last longer by keeping harmful bacteria at bay, many experts do suggest refrigerating your mustard after opening. The simple answer to this is that no food stays fresh forever.
The Takeaway
Mustard can eventually turn rancid, but it lasts a lot longer than many other condiments. If you store it right, you can enjoy its tangy flavor for years from just one affordable jar.
So, what is the way out? Just like other long-lasting foods, mustard should be kept in the fridge after opening to keep its flavor and kick. As you open and close the jar, the flavor will gradually change.
While mustard’s acidity helps it stay fresh longer, refrigerating it after opening keeps its flavor and quality intact. Ultimately, it’s all about the taste and quality, right?