You’re probably here because you’ve dug out an old jar of mustard stored away in the cupboard and are left wondering:
When did I open this, and how long does mustard last?
Want us to spill the beans early?
The good news: Mustard can last past its expiration date.
The bad news: It’s considered a perishable good, and mustard most certainly does go bad.
Full of calcium, copper, magnesium, selenium, vitamins A, C, and K, and boasting a high fiber content, mustard is a versatile addition to your favorite salads, soups, and stews.
Keep reading to find out how to make sure your mustard is good, how long it lasts, and the best way to store it.
How To Tell If Mustard Has Gone Off
So you’re looking at your 1-year-old jar of mustard and thinking: can I still use this? Lucky for you, it’s pretty easy to identify if your mustard has gone off:
- Mold. If you notice any signs of organic growth on the inside of the jar, then it’s time to chuck it!
- Odor. Take a whiff of the mustard, anything weird, and to the bin it goes
- Expiration date. While it’s commonly known that mustard does last past its expiration date, risk trying it at your own peril! The jar could likely have sat on the shop shelf for weeks before you bought it. If the mustard seems fine but is already past the best-by date by 1 or 2 years, it’s time to discard it.
Remember this tip: Make sure not to use a dirty spoon when scooping out your mustard from the container. This can directly impact bacterial growth in your mustard and can speed up the molding process.
How To Store Mustard
Whatever the type of your mustard, it should sit in a cool, dark place, away from any sources of heat and sunlight.
You can store an unopened jar or bottle at room temperature, which suggests a cupboard or pantry are the best options.
On a hot summer’s day, perhaps your mustard will need to be refrigerated.
Once opened, jars or the bottle of mustard should be refrigerated to ensure the safety and quality of the condiment, but be forewarned.
The product’s good quality flavor will maintain for two or three months after the date of refrigeration, but it’s not necessary to refrigerate your mustard if you prefer to consume your mustard at room temperature.
Freezing mustard makes it last for an extra three to four months, which can always be useful.
How long your mustard lasts depends on the type of mustard. We’ll give you a top to bottom show of these below.
How Long Mustard Lasts
There are many types of mustard available. Mustards with a higher amount of acid, such as Dijon mustard, will last longer than less acidic mustards, like honey mustard.
Unopened containers of Dijon mustard can be stored in your pantry or another cool, dark place. This means it can last from two to three years.
Be sure it’s kept away from any heat or moisture, like any type of mustard. However, once opened, it lasts around one year after the printed date.
Chinese and American mustard, when unopened, lasts around one to two years, but after opening will only last approximately one year.
Homemade honey mustard, when kept tightly covered with little exposure to its surroundings, will keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Since Honey mustard doesn’t last as long as other mustards, freezing might be a better option for you.
So…Does Mustard Go Off?
Sadly, the answer is a sure-fire yes.
But, if you want to keep your mustard thriving for longer, be sure to follow the prior preservation techniques, and rest assured, it’s really easy to tell if your mustard is off.
Remember: store your mustard in a cool dark place.
