All About Sriracha sauce
Your complete guide to sriracha sauce - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Sriracha sauce Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for sriracha sauce 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 pantryUp to 2-3 years (refer to 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging bottle, leakage, mold growth (if seal is compromised), extremely off odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect the bottle for any signs of damage, swelling, or leakage. Check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date printed on the packaging. An unopened bottle should show no signs of active fermentation or unusual pressure.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Sriracha is shelf-stable before opening due to its high acidity and salt content, which act as natural preservatives.
opened fridge6-12 months for optimal quality, potentially safe longer
Signs of Spoilage
Noticeable darkening or change in color (e.g., duller red), visible mold spots (especially around the nozzle or on the surface), active bubbling or fermentation, unusual separation (beyond minor liquid separation), off-putting sour, yeasty, metallic, or rotten smell, slimy or unusually thick/thin texture.
How to Check
-
Visual Inspection: Look for any discoloration, mold growth (can be white, green, or black fuzz), or unusual textures. Check the bottle's nozzle and rim carefully for dried sauce or mold.
-
Smell Test: Open the bottle and take a deep whiff. It should smell like spicy chili and garlic with a vinegary tang. Any sour, chemical, fermented, or putrid odor is a strong indicator of spoilage.
-
Texture Check: If visually and olfactorily acceptable, pour a small amount. It should flow consistently. Sliminess or extreme thickening/thinning indicates degradation.
Storage Tips
Always refrigerate after opening to preserve flavor, color, and prevent spoilage. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use to minimize air exposure. Regularly clean the nozzle and rim to prevent dried sauce buildup, which can harbor bacteria or mold. While Sriracha's high acidity makes it quite resistant to spoilage, its quality (flavor, color, heat) will degrade over time once opened.