Condiments, Sauces & Canned Goods

Barbecue saucebottled

4 months in the fridge after opening and 1 year in the pantry from the date of purchase.

Pantry

from purchase: 1 year

Fridge

after opening: 4 months

Freezer

No USDA guidance

Storage tips

Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial barbecue sauce is safe when stored at room temperature after opening. Quality, not safety, is the reason the labels on these products suggest that they be refrigerated after opening.

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeperHow to read these times

Common questions

How long does barbecue sauce (bottled) last in the fridge?

4 months after opening.

How long does barbecue sauce (bottled) last in the pantry?

1 year from the date of purchase.

How can I tell if barbecue sauce (bottled) has gone bad?

Throw it out if it smells off, feels slimy or sticky, shows mold, or has changed color. Storage times assume it was handled safely and kept cold the whole time.