All About Sweet chili sauce
Your complete guide to sweet chili sauce - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Sweet chili sauce Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for sweet chili 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 pantry1-2 years past the 'best by' or 'expiration' date, if stored properly. Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging lid, leaking bottle, unusual pressure when opening (hissing), significant discoloration (darkening or unusual color changes), mold growth (highly unlikely in an unopened, sealed bottle).
How to Check
Visually inspect the bottle for any damage, swelling, or leaks. Check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date. If the date is significantly past and you notice any of the above signs, discard. An unopened bottle should not show any signs of fermentation or pressure.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight, heat sources (like ovens or stovetops), and extreme temperature fluctuations. Proper storage helps maintain quality and extends shelf life.
opened fridge6 months - 1 year after opening. While often safe for longer due to high sugar/vinegar content, quality may decline after 6 months.
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (fuzzy white, green, or black spots on the surface or around the rim), significant discoloration (darkening, browning, or unusual color changes not characteristic of the original sauce), off-odor (sour, yeasty, fermented, 'off' smell), excessive or unusual separation that doesn't recombine with a shake, bubbling or fizzing, slimy or unusually thick texture.
How to Check
-
Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the surface of the sauce, the inside of the bottle neck, and the bottom for any signs of mold, unusual colors, or bubbling. Check for excessive or uncharacteristic separation.
-
Smell Test: Gently sniff the sauce. Any sour, fermented, 'off,' or unpleasant smell indicates spoilage.
-
Texture Check: If visual and smell tests are clear, observe the texture. It should be smooth and pourable, not slimy, overly thick, or watery. If any of these signs are present, discard the sauce.
Storage Tips
Always keep the bottle tightly sealed when not in use. Use clean utensils each time you dispense the sauce to prevent introducing bacteria. Refrigerate promptly after each use. The high sugar and vinegar content contribute to its relatively long shelf life once opened, but refrigeration is essential.