We all have tomato sauce in our kitchen pantry as a staple. But how long does tomato sauce last in the fridge? That’s the question everyone is asking. Storing tomato sauce properly is essential to ensure it’s safe to eat. So, let’s explore the answer about tomato sauce shelf life.
A packaged tomato sauce can last up to seven days in the refrigerator. It will last for three to five days in the fridge when opened. After a week has passed, it’s not fresh or safe to use in your cooking.
Many people confuse tomato sauce with tomato ketchup, but they are two different things. Tomato ketchup is made from tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, spices, and seasonings. Whereas tomato sauce is made from tomatoes, oil, vegetable or meat stock, and herbs. It does not contain vinegar.
Tomato sauce is a great way to add flavor to your favorite dishes, but it’s essential to store it properly. It should be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container and consumed within five days of opening.
In this blog, we will learn about the storage of tomato sauce and how to know if it’s gone wrong. So, let’s get started.
How Long Does Tomato Sauce Last In The Fridge?
| Types Of Tomato Sauce | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Store-Bought Tomato Sauce | Up to 7 Days (In Fridge) |
| Homemade Tomato Sauce | 3 – 5 Days (In The Fridge) |
If you have store-bought tomato sauce, then it can last up to 7 days sealed in the refrigerator. After opening, it will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
It can go wrong if the sauce is left at room temperature for more than a few hours. Eventually, it will have an off-odor, and you must throw it away.
Homemade Tomato Sauce Shelf Life
When it comes to homemade tomato sauce, the shelf life of homemade tomato sauce is 3-4 days. It should be stored in an airtight container.
The reason behind the short shelf life of homemade sauce is there are no preservatives present in it. The sauce is made with fresh tomatoes, and they contain more water. This is what makes the sauce perishable.
How To Tell If Tomato Sauce Has Gone Bad?
Look at the factors below to tell if the tomato sauce has gone wrong.
Tomato sauce is a staple ingredient for many dishes, and it’s essential to know when it has gone bad to avoid potential health risks. Here are a few factors to look out for when determining if your tomato sauce has spoiled:
1. Appearance
One of the easiest ways to tell if tomato sauce has gone wrong is by checking its appearance. If it has developed mold or has a cloudy or discolored appearance, it’s spoiled and should be discarded.
2. Smell
Another way to determine if tomato sauce has gone wrong is by smelling it. If it has a sour smell, it’s no longer safe to consume.
3. Texture
Sour tomato sauce will have a greasy or sticky texture. If you notice any unusual texture like this, it’s best to throw it away.
4. Taste
Finally, if you taste the tomato sauce and notice a sour or bitter taste, it’s likely gone bad.
Storage of Tomato Sauce
Let’s look at the storage options for tomato sauce.
1. Air-Container
To preserve your tomato sauce, allow it to cool before transferring it into suitable freezer containers or bags. By doing so, the sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without developing any unpleasant freezer burn or off-flavors.
2. Canning Jars
For those who prefer canning, transfer the hot tomato sauce into sterilized canning jars, seal them tightly with new lids, and boil them for 30 minutes. This process of hot-water canning can be considered for those who want to store their tomato sauce for extended periods.
Can you Freeze Tomato Sauce?
Freezing tomato sauce is a great way to preserve it for later use. It’s best to freeze the sauce in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and label it with the set date.
When ready to use it, move it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Tomato sauce can last up to 3-4 months after freezing.
Conclusion
The shelf life of tomato sauce in the fridge lasts seven days. After opening, it can last up to three to five days in the refrigerator.
It is essential to store the sauce in an airtight container and to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge at or below 40°F temperature. Use clean utensils when handling them to prevent contamination.
This blog has provided valuable tips for storing tomato sauce in the fridge, such as using airtight containers and labeling them with the date they were opened.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your tomato sauce stays fresh and safe for as long as possible. Thanks for reading, and we hope you found this information helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can I keep tomato sauce in the fridge once it’s been opened?
Once opened, tomato sauce can last 3-4 days in the fridge. It’s essential to store it in an airtight container and promptly refrigerate it after opening to ensure it stays fresh.
Can I still use tomato sauce if it’s past the expiration date?
No, it would help if you did not use expired tomato sauce. As it might have been contaminated and developed mold in the sauce. So, it can make you sick.
Can I freeze tomato sauce to make it last longer?
Yes, you can freeze tomato sauce to extend its shelf life. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, lasting up to 3-4 months in the freezer.
How can I tell if tomato sauce has gone wrong?
If tomato sauce has gone wrong, it may have a sour or rotten smell, a moldy appearance, or a sticky texture. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the sauce.
