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How long does mayonnaise last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Pantry / counter
4 months
Unopened: 3–4 months past sell-by, pantry
After opening
2 months
2 months in fridge after opening
The short answer
Mayonnaise lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Egg-and-oil emulsion. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if mayonnaise is bad
- Yellowing color
- Separation
- Sour smell
- Mold around lid
Storage tips
- MUST refrigerate after opening — egg-based
- Discard if left out >8 hours
- Use clean utensils only
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Frequently asked questions
How long does mayonnaise last in the pantry / counter?
Mayonnaise lasts 4 months in the pantry / counter. Unopened: 3–4 months past sell-by, pantry
How long does mayonnaise last in the after opening?
Mayonnaise lasts 2 months in the after opening. 2 months in fridge after opening
How can you tell if mayonnaise is bad?
Watch for: Yellowing color; Separation; Sour smell.