Store your condiments correctly for safety and better flavor.
Most households have a large number of condiments on hand, and it isn't always clear how these should be stored or how long they will last if stored properly. Usually products that require refrigeration will say so on the label, but if the label doesn't state this, is refrigeration still a good idea? Of course, every possible condiment cannot be listed here, but a few guidelines can help you decide safely and effectively store most condiments.
Condiments that Must Be Refrigerated
Condiments made from perishable ingredients such as milk, eggs, fresh vegetables, etc., must be stored in the refrigerator after opening. Many of these items are kept in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. They are almost always marked "Keep refrigerated" or "Refrigerate after opening." Such items include mayonnaise, dairy-based salad dressings, dips, chutneys, horseradish, relishes, olives, minced garlic, etc. Even refrigerated, these items have a limited life; mayonnaise and salad dressing will stay fresh about three months in the refrigerator.
Condiments that Need No Refrigeration
Condiments that are highly acidic, salty, extremely sweet or made from a stable olive or vegetable oil do not need refrigeration (nut oils, on the other hand, can go rancid if not refrigerated). Soy sauce, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce and all varieties of vinegar are examples of these condiments. Honey, corn syrup, molasses and jams with at least 2/3 sugar content will keep on the shelf, but maple syrup should be refrigerated. Most of these items will still need to be replaced after long storage simply because the quality and flavor fades with time; soy sauce, for example, should be discarded after a year. Vinegar can retain its flavor for up to three years. Dry condiments such as sugar and salt may be kept almost indefinitely on the shelf.
Condiments Optionally Refrigerated
Some condiments will keep for a reasonable time without refrigeration but will last longer in the refrigerator. Ketchup will keep for a month without refrigeration but will last up to six months if kept cool. Barbecue sauce will keep for a month on the pantry shelf or up to four months in the refrigerator. Peanut butter does not need refrigeration, but the oil in natural peanut butter, if it is stirred and refrigerated, will not separate (this is not harmful in any case--simply stir it back in). Mustard will keep for one to two months at room temperature but up to a year in the refrigerator.
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