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Condiments & Spreads
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Condiments & Spreads

How long does ketchup (opened) last?

Opened ketchup bottle.

Quick answer
Pantry (room temp)
1 month
1 month opened at room temp (acidic โ€” surprisingly stable)
After opening
6 months
6 months refrigerated
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Signs ketchup (opened) has gone bad

  • โ€ขMold around cap
  • โ€ขWatery separation
  • โ€ขDarker color
  • โ€ขOff smell

Storage tips

  • โœ“Refrigeration preserves color/flavor longest
  • โœ“Squeeze bottles last longer than wide-mouth
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Sources & review
Compiled by the BestByDates editorial team. Last reviewed: January 2025. Spotted an error? Let us know.

Disclaimer: Times shown are USDA/FDA-recommended best quality periods, not absolute safety guarantees. Storage conditions, packaging, and food handling all affect actual shelf life. When in doubt, throw it out.