Your complete guide to teriyaki sauce - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
Storage times and freshness tips for teriyaki 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.
Bulging or leaking bottle, unusual pressure when opening, significant discoloration (e.g., very dark or cloudy), or a very strong, off odor immediately upon opening (rare if unopened seal is intact).
Visually inspect the bottle for any damage, leaks, or bulging. Check the 'best by' or 'best before' date. If it looks normal and the seal is intact, it's likely safe, though quality might degrade past the date.
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The 'best by' date primarily indicates peak quality, not necessarily safety, for unopened shelf-stable products.
Visible mold growth (fuzzy, discolored spots) on the surface or around the rim, a sour, yeasty, alcoholic, or otherwise unpleasant off-odor, significant darkening or cloudiness, unusual thickness or sliminess, or bubbling/fermentation.
Visual Inspection: Look closely for any mold, discoloration, or cloudiness. Check the neck and inside of the lid.
Smell Test: Open the bottle and take a cautious sniff. Compare to the original aroma; any sour, fermented, or 'off' smells indicate spoilage.
Texture Check: If visual and smell tests are inconclusive, pour a small amount. It should not be overly thick, slimy, or bubbly.
Taste Test (Last Resort): If all other tests pass, taste a tiny drop. If it tastes sour, fermented, or otherwise 'off', discard immediately.
Always keep the bottle tightly sealed after each use to minimize exposure to air and contaminants. Use clean utensils when pouring or measuring to prevent cross-contamination, which can significantly shorten its shelf life.