Buzz
Ketchup is a condiment that many people store differently. Some keep it in the fridge, while others leave it in the pantry. So, what’s the best way to store this beloved sauce? Does ketchup truly require refrigeration, or is it fine to stay in your pantry? We consulted with food scientist and safety expert Chika Ada Okegbe to clear up the confusion once and for all.
Pofuduk Images/Getty ImagesDoes Ketchup Need to Be Refrigerated?
Okegbe states that store-bought ketchup—also known as the kind you find in the grocery store—“can be safely stored at room temperature,” but she advises refrigerating it after opening. Once opened, ketchup begins to deteriorate gradually, and refrigerating it slows this process, keeping it fresh and flavorful for a longer period. Homemade ketchup, however, should always be kept in the fridge, as it lacks stabilizing agents and spoils much faster than commercial varieties.
Does Ketchup Spoil?
Yes, ketchup can spoil. If unopened, commercial ketchup “can last up to a year in your pantry,” according to Okegbe. However, once opened and refrigerated, it should ideally be consumed within six months. If stored in the pantry after opening, it should be used within a month for safety. Homemade ketchup, on the other hand, lasts only about a week in the fridge and should never be stored in the pantry.
So, how can you tell if your ketchup has gone bad? Okegbe outlines several signs of spoilage: a moldy surface or container, a “sour, yeasty” smell or taste, and/or a bloated container, which indicates that the ketchup has fermented and should not be eaten.
