All About Mustard
Your complete guide to mustard - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Mustard Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for mustard 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 pantry1-2 years past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking container, significant discoloration (darkening or unusual hues), off-odor (sour, chemical, rancid) upon opening, mold growth (extremely rare in unopened).
How to Check
Visually inspect the container for any damage, bulging, or leaks. If the container appears normal, open it and perform a smell test. If it smells off, discard. Do not taste if any visual or smell signs are present.
Storage Tips
The 'best by' date primarily indicates optimal quality, not safety. Mustard's high acidity and preservatives make it very shelf-stable. Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain quality.
opened refrigerator6-12 months (most varieties), 3-6 months (artisanal/less preserved)
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold growth (fuzzy spots, especially on the surface or rim), significant discoloration (darkening, browning, or unusual colors), excessive liquid separation that doesn't reincorporate with stirring, sour, vinegary, chemical, or rancid off-odor, unusually thick, lumpy, or watery texture, noticeably 'off' or diminished flavor.
How to Check
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Visual Inspection: Look for any mold, unusual colors, or excessive separation. Check the container's rim and lid for dried, crusted mustard that could harbor mold.
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Smell Test: Gently sniff the mustard. If it has any smell other than its typical tangy aroma (e.g., sour, rancid, chemical), discard it.
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Texture Check: Stir the mustard if there's some separation. If it remains lumpy, excessively thick, or very watery after stirring, it's likely spoiled.
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Taste Test (Small Amount): If visual and smell tests pass, taste a very small amount. If the flavor is dull, sour, bitter, or otherwise 'off', discard.
Storage Tips
Always use clean utensils to scoop out mustard to prevent introducing bacteria. Keep the lid tightly sealed to minimize air exposure and prevent drying. Store on an inner shelf of the refrigerator rather than the door, where temperature fluctuations are more common. While some mustards are quite resilient, refrigeration is crucial for maintaining opened mustard's quality, flavor, and extending its shelf life.