All About Chutney
Your complete guide to chutney - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Chutney Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for chutney in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
opened refrigerator1-2 months
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (fuzzy green, white, black spots) on the surface or sides, off-smell (yeasty, fermented, sour, alcoholic, rancid), significant discoloration (darker, duller, or unusual hues), dried-out edges, sliminess or overly watery texture not typical for the product.
How to Check
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Visual Inspection: Look closely for any mold growth, especially around the rim and on the surface. Note any extreme changes in color or consistency.
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Smell Test: Gently open the jar and take a sniff. It should smell fresh, fruity, and acidic, as expected. Any sour, yeasty, alcoholic, or unpleasant odor indicates spoilage.
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Texture Check: If it passes visual and smell tests, use a clean spoon to check consistency. It shouldn't be slimy or excessively watery if it wasn't before.
Storage Tips
Always use clean utensils when scooping chutney to prevent introducing bacteria. Keep the lid tightly sealed between uses. While some separation of liquids may occur over time, excessive or unusual separation, especially with other spoilage signs, is a red flag. Always refer to the manufacturer's 'consume within' guidance on the label, which often suggests 4-6 weeks.
freezer6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (excessive ice crystals, dry or discolored patches), significant changes in texture upon thawing (e.g., overly mushy or watery, loss of integrity), or off-smell after thawing (though rare if frozen properly).
How to Check
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Visual (after thawing): Check for excessive liquid separation, unusual color, or signs of freezer burn.
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Smell (after thawing): Perform a sniff test for any off-odors.
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Texture (after thawing): Assess if the texture is still acceptable for your intended use. While some texture change is common with freezing, it shouldn't be unappetizing.
Storage Tips
Freeze chutney in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave about an inch of headspace in rigid containers to allow for expansion. Label with the date of freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. While safe for longer, quality (especially texture and fresh fruit notes) may diminish after 6-12 months.
unopened pantry1-2 years (or until 'Best By' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging lid, leakage, broken seal (lid not concave), visible mold inside the sealed jar, significant discoloration or unusual separation not typical for the product.
How to Check
Visually inspect the jar for any signs of damage, leaks, or a compromised seal. The lid should be concave and not 'pop' when pressed. Check the 'Best By' or 'Expiration' date on the label. Look for any unusual cloudiness or foreign growth within the jar.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. The high acid and sugar content, combined with heat processing, makes unopened chutney very shelf-stable.