DecodedGuides

How long does oyster sauce last?

Oyster sauce keeps for 3 to 6 months in the fridge once opened, for 18 to 24 months in the pantry. Times are USDA FoodKeeper quality guidelines from the point of purchase unless noted.

Pantry

18 to 24 months

from the package date

Fridge

3 to 6 months

after opening

Freezer

No guideline

How to tell oyster sauce has gone bad

General signs for condiments, sauces & canned goods, the group USDA lists oyster sauce under.

  • Dented, bulging or rusted cans, especially at the seams
  • Hissing sound or spray when a can or jar is opened
  • Mould on the surface of a sauce or condiment
  • Separation, discoloration or a sharp off smell from the jar
  • Metallic taste or cloudy liquid in canned food

More on condiments, sauces & canned goods. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.

Storage habits that make the difference

Refrigerate opened condiments and sauces with their lids on tightly, and use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination. Store unopened cans in a cool, dry cupboard, and once opened, transfer leftover canned food to a covered container in the fridge rather than storing it in the can.

More in condiments, sauces & canned goods

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). Times assume a fridge at 40 F (4 C) and a freezer at 0 F (-18 C). How we decode the data.