Mayonnaise ingredient

All About Mayonnaise

condiments

Your complete guide to mayonnaise - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.

2 storage methods
24 substitutes

How Long Does Mayonnaise Last?

Storage times and freshness tips for mayonnaise 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 pantry
Up to 3-6 months past the 'best by' date (or 'best before' date), generally 6-12 months from the production date.

Signs of Spoilage

Bulging or leaking container, significant discoloration (e.g., dark yellow, brownish), visible mold growth (unlikely if sealed), a strong 'off' or rancid odor emanating from the container (even if sealed).

How to Check

  1. Check 'Best By' Date: While often safe past this date, it's a good guideline for optimal quality.

  2. Visual Inspection: Examine the container for any signs of damage, swelling, or leaks. If the container is transparent, look for any unusual color changes or extreme separation.

  3. Smell Test (if container allows): If there's any noticeable foul odor without opening, discard it.

Storage Tips

Store in a cool, dark pantry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Consistency in temperature helps maintain quality. A slight oil separation can sometimes occur but is usually not a sign of spoilage if unopened and within date; it should re-emulsify upon stirring after opening.

opened fridge
1-2 months

Signs of Spoilage

Foul, sour, or rancid odor (often described as 'cheesy' or 'vinegary' beyond its normal tang), visible mold growth (green, black, pink, or white spots), significant discoloration (dark yellow, brown, grey), watery or excessively oily texture (emulsion has broken), extreme thickness, lumpiness, or sliminess.

How to Check

  1. Smell Test: This is the most reliable indicator. Open the jar and take a good whiff. If it smells sour, rancid, or any other unpleasant 'off' odor, discard it immediately.

  2. Visual Inspection: Look for any mold growth on the surface or sides of the jar, unusual color changes, or excessive oil separation where the oil has clearly separated from the other ingredients.

  3. Texture Test: Use a clean spoon to check the consistency. If it's unusually watery, lumpy, or has developed a slimy film, it's likely spoiled. Never taste-test if any other spoilage signs are present.

Storage Tips

Always use a clean utensil to scoop mayonnaise to prevent introducing bacteria from other foods or saliva. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use to minimize air exposure. Store on an inner shelf of the refrigerator where temperatures are more consistent, rather than in the door, which experiences more temperature fluctuations. Do not leave opened mayonnaise at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Freezing mayonnaise is not recommended as it causes the emulsion to break, leading to a separated, watery, and unappetizing texture upon thawing, though it would still be safe to eat.