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How long does mustard last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Pantry / counter
2 years
Unopened: 2 years past sell-by
After opening
1 year
1 year in fridge after opening
The short answer
Mustard 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
Vinegar-based mustard sauce. 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 mustard is bad
- Drying out (still safe — add vinegar)
- Mold around lid
- Off smell
Storage tips
- Vinegar preserves mustard for years
- Watery separation = stir, still good
- Specialty mustards have shorter lives
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Frequently asked questions
How long does mustard last in the pantry / counter?
Mustard lasts 2 years in the pantry / counter. Unopened: 2 years past sell-by
How long does mustard last in the after opening?
Mustard lasts 1 year in the after opening. 1 year in fridge after opening
How can you tell if mustard is bad?
Watch for: Drying out (still safe — add vinegar); Mold around lid; Off smell.