Mustard is a long-lasting food that almost doesn’t have an expiration date if kept unopened and properly maintained. However, if you contaminate it with other foods or leave an opened bottle in a warm spot, it will spoil.
Is It Possible for Mustard to Go Bad?
Technically, nothing in mustard goes bad because it comprises spices and an acid-based liquid but mustard can lose its flavor with time. Mustard will lose its zing rather than become rancid because of its short ingredient list.
Signs to Note
The Ingredients Are Separate
First, the liquid rises to the top, leaving the thicker, more solid elements at the bottom. We can rectify if found early enough by simply swirling or shaking the bottle until it looks normal again. However, if the ingredients do not combine into a single mixture after stirring, it is likely too old, and we should discard it.
Odor
It has an odd odor. While some may argue that mustard usually has an odd odor, it shouldn’t be overly sour. This could show that something is changing shape.
Mold
If anything is moldy, do not eat it. Mold is most found in the seal or at the bottom of a container. So, inspect carefully.
Color Discoloration
Changing colors is normally not a major concern for many. However, the mustard will lose its brilliant yellow color as it ages. We can still use the bottle if there are no other issues. If the color becomes a dark hue, it may be time to discard it.
What Is the Shelf Life of Mustard Powder?
Powdered mustard, simply broken mustard seeds, has a four-year shelf life. We maintain mustard in this manner to keep and preserve its flavor over time and use it as a cooking ingredient.
How to Store Different Types of Mustard?
American
When kept unopened and at room temperature in the pantry, this popular, mild mustard can last for one to two years past the best by date. We can keep it in the fridge for up to a year after opening.
Dijon
You can store unopened Dijon mustard in the pantry for two to three years at room temperature. Because of the higher vinegar content, it lasts a year after being opened in the fridge.
Chinese
When stored unopened, this can last one to two years in the pantry. After opening, we can store it in the fridge for approximately a year.
Honey
Once unopened, this honey-mustard combination will last two to three years in the pantry, and one to two years in the fridge if opened.
Homemade
At room temperature, it will only last a day. However, depending on the packaging and ingredients used, it can stay anywhere from a week to a year in the fridge.
Dry
At room temperature, it will last one to two years. In the refrigerator, it will last permanently. You can store mustard in a glass jar for two years and 18 months in plastic squeeze bottles. Mustard sachets have around a six-month shelf life.
How to Make the Most of Mustard Before It Goes Bad?
If you have mustard sitting in your refrigerator for a while, you may wonder what to do with it. The good news is that mustard isn’t simply a condiment for smearing on bread; it’s also very versatile, and you can use it for various purposes.
Here are some ideas for how to use mustard before it spoils:
- A dipping or cooking sauce
- A salad dressing
- A glaze
- A marinade
Conclusion
Generally, in the kitchen, everything ultimately spoils. The best way to tell whether something is amiss with your meal is to use your five senses. For example, you can rely on your eyes and nose to determine whether the mustard you forgot about and has been lying in the fridge for months is worth preserving.
FAQs
Can You Get Sick From Old Mustard?
Like any other food, spoiled mustard can make you sick, but aged mustard is usually acceptable. Irritation, skin rash, congestion, and/or hives are the most prevalent negative effects of consuming mustard if you are allergic to it. Also, it’s possible that you’ll fall into shock in the worst-case scenario.
Does Mustard Spoil if It Isn’t Kept Refrigerated?
Mold and other bacteria will take considerably longer to grow in cold environments, so it’s best to keep mustard in places where temperature variations are minimal.
Is It True That Homemade Mustard Spoils Faster?
After creating homemade mustard, store it in a refrigerator or freezer less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
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I am a yogi with a smoldering passion for nutrition and healthy living. I have been a Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach for over 11 years and now I want to help you. My mission is to inspire as many people as I can to expand their awareness and broaden their horizons by giving a voice to the choices that create abundant, radiant health. Here I share deliciously simple plant-based recipes, nutrition resources, detox tips, and a glimpse into my whole lifestyle.
