How Long Does BBQ Sauce Last in the Fridge

Barbecue sauce is a classic condiment that is a must-have at any Summer cookout. It takes any chicken, ribs, burgers, and grilled veggies to the next level! It can be difficult, however, to finish a whole bottle in one meal making you wonder how long does bbq sauce last in the fridge? 

You may be surprised to find that you don't need to toss that bottle of bbq sauce that you have had in the fridge for a few months! And an unopened bottle of bbq sauce can last for an even longer time when stored properly.

Barbecue sauce has a long shelf life. And there are steps you can take to make its delicious flavor last even longer. Below, we will discuss the shelf life of barbecue sauce and how it can best be stored.

Looking to try your hand at making your very own homemade bbq sauce to spice up your next cookout? Give this Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce a try! 

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How long does bbq sauce last? 

The shelf-life of barbecue sauce will largely depend on the storage method. The best way to store an opened bottle of store-bought bbq sauce is in the refrigerator as it will last significantly longer than an opened bottle stored in the pantry.

Barbecue sauce that has been stored in the fridge will typically last about six to nine months after it has been opened. If possible, keep the bottle near the back of the fridge so that it is not impacted by temperature changes when the refrigerator door is opened.

An opened bottle of barbecue sauce that has been stored in the pantry will usually last about 1-2 months after opening, depending on storage conditions.

These are average shelf lives and it is important to look out for any signs of spoilage before consuming barbecue sauce that has been stored for an extended period of time. We will discuss some signs that bbq sauce has gone bad below.

Homemade sauce is typically made with fewer preservatives than store-bought varieties. This means that it will likely have a shorter shelf-life. You can typically expect homemade barbecue sauce to last for about 1-2 weeks before spoiling. 

Does barbecue sauce go bad? 

Store-bought sauce is typically made with natural preservatives such as vinegar and lemon juice that extend the shelf life of the product. Therefore, an unopened bottle of barbecue sauce will typically last for a long time, about 1-2 years, and will often still be safe to consume past its expiration date.

With that being said, it will eventually go bad, and there are a few ways to tell if barbecue sauce is no longer safe to consume. 

How to tell if barbecue sauce has spoiled?

While the shelf life of bbq sauce is long, it will not last forever, and you will want to keep an eye out for signs of spoilage if you suspect yours has gone bad.

If you have concerns that you're bbq sauce is no longer safe to consume, it's best to practice food safety and err on the side of caution by throwing it away.

• Mold - any sign of mold on the inside of an old bottle of bbq sauce, or at the top of the sauce is a clear sign that the product is no longer safe to consume and should be tossed. 
• Sour Scent - a sour or foul smell or taste can indicate that your barbecue sauce has spoiled due to the oxidation process. If you notice any unexpected scent from a bottle of old bbq sauce, it's better to be safe than sorry and get a new bottle. 
• Texture Changes - barbecue sauce that has gone bad can sometimes get clumpy, dry, or thicker than normal. If the texture of the sauce changes, this can mean that the sauce has gone bad and should be thrown out. You should also keep an eye out for any unusual color change, as this may also indicate that your sauce has gone bad.

FAQs

Can open bbq sauce be stored in the pantry? 

An open bottle of bbq sauce can be stored in the pantry, however, the shelf life will be significantly shorter than when it is stored in the fridge.

When kept in the cupboard, open barbecue sauce will be good for approximately 1 month from opening. If you are not refrigerating your barbecue sauce, try to keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Unopened bbq sauce can be stored in the pantry for a long period of time, typically for about 6-12 months beyond its best-by date. 

Does homemade bbq sauce last as long as storebought?

Homemade sauce is typically made with fewer preservatives than store-bought varieties. This means that it will likely have a shorter shelf-life. You can typically expect homemade barbecue sauce to last for about 1-2 weeks before spoiling. 

How to freeze barbecue sauce?

Barbecue sauce can also be stored in the freezer to extend its shelf life even more. Store-bought bbq sauce can be frozen in its original bottle.

To freeze homemade barbecue sauce, be sure that it has cooled to room temperature first. Package in an airtight container or jars and freeze for up to 6 months. 

Pro tips

• Be sure to use clean spoons or other utensils when dipping into a jar or bottle of bbq sauce. A dirty utensil can contaminate the sauce with bacteria and cause the leftover sauce to spoil faster
• It is always a good idea to check the label on the bottle of barbecue sauce for recommendations on storage and shelf-life. Some brands may suggest a shorter storage period, and the shelf life of your favorite bbq sauce may differ from others.
• If you find that your barbecue sauce has separated and that there is a layer of liquid on top, that does not necessarily mean that it has gone bad. Simply give the bottle a good shake before opening and the layers should incorporate 

Homemade bbq sauce recipes