If you’re anything like us, you probably have a selection of sauces renting space in your fridge. Condiments and spreads are the easiest way to spice up a dish or add an extra element of flavor. That means there’s probably a jar of extra hot chili paste or exotic marmalade lurking in the cupboard for just the right occasion. After all, it’s important to always be prepared!
But because these condiments are often only seldomly used, you’re usually left with dozens of open jars that are half full. Here’s a handy guide to know when to toss what.
Ketchup
Unopened: 1 year at room temperature
After opening: 6 months in the fridge
Even the most unadventurous eater likely has a bottle of ketchup in their cupboard. Tangy and sweet at the same time, the tomato sauce is the go-to dip for fries, but it can also be used to make bolognese and even cupcakes! It also lasts fairly long
Mayonnaise
Unopened: 3 months at room temperature
After opening: 2 months in the fridge
When a recipe requires some creaminess, mayo is the way to go! Depending on the brand, it can also add a bit of tang to the dish. Personally, we prefer homemade mayonnaise. Unfortunately, it only survives for a week in the fridge.
Jam & Preserves
Unopened: 3 years at room temperature
After opening: 6 to 12 months in the fridge
The sweet, sticky stuff goes gloriously with toast and even better with cheese (trust us). The name “preserve” probably gives an indication as to why the spread lasts so long before opened!
Hot Sauce
Unopened: 3 to 4 years at room temperature
After opening: 1 to 2 years in the fridge / 6 months in the pantry
Whether you like it mild or prefer steam coming out of your ears, hot sauce is a staple in most pantries. In fact, it is the spiciness that gives it such a long shelf life. That said, if you like it hot, we doubt it’ll last 1 to 2 years!
Honey
Doesn’t expire!
Honey has a multitude of benefits. Not only is it a natural sweetener which you probably already knew, the sweet substance contains antibacterial properties, can aid in healing wounds, and the best part? It never goes bad! In 2015, archaeologists discovered honey from ancient Egypt that was perfectly edible.
