All About Crushed tomatoes
Your complete guide to crushed tomatoes - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Crushed tomatoes Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for crushed tomatoes 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.
Unopened, Shelf-Stable (Pantry)12-18 months past 'best by' date, or up to 2-3 years from production date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging, leaking, or rusted can/jar; broken seal; foul odor or mold immediately upon opening; excessive fizzing or pressure release upon opening.
How to Check
Visually inspect the can/jar for any damage (dents, bulges, rust) before opening. Upon opening, listen for a proper vacuum seal release ('hiss'). Immediately smell for any off, sour, or metallic odors. Do not taste if any of these signs are present.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. While safe for an extended period, quality (flavor, texture) may slowly degrade over time.
Opened (Refrigerator)5-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (green, white, black fuzzy spots) on the surface or sides; significant discoloration (darker, brownish, or unusual dullness); sour, fermented, yeasty, or 'off' smell; bubbling or fizzing; slimy texture.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold growth or unusual colors. Smell for any sour, pungent, or 'off' odors that are not characteristic of fresh tomatoes. Check for any bubbling, which indicates fermentation. If in doubt, it's best to discard.
Storage Tips
Immediately transfer any unused crushed tomatoes from the opened can to an airtight, non-reactive container (glass or plastic) before refrigerating. Storing in the original can is not recommended as it can impart a metallic taste and potentially accelerate spoilage. Keep sealed tightly to prevent absorption of other fridge odors.
Frozen6-12 months for optimal quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F (-18°C)
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive freezer burn (dry, discolored spots) which indicates quality degradation; significant loss of vibrant color; development of 'off' flavors or aromas after thawing (though safety is rarely an issue if continuously frozen).
How to Check
Visually inspect for severe freezer burn before thawing. After thawing, check for a normal tomato smell and color. The texture will be softer and more watery than fresh, which is normal for thawed tomatoes. If the thawed product has an 'off' smell, discard.
Storage Tips
Portion crushed tomatoes into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Label with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use directly in cooking (e.g., add to a simmering sauce). While safe for longer, quality is best within the 6-12 month range.