How long does balsamic vinegar last?
In the fridge, balsamic vinegar keeps for 18 months after opening. In the pantry, it keeps for 3 to 5 years from the package date. Once opened, use it within 18 months.
3 to 5 years
from the package date
18 months
after opening
18 months
in the fridge unless noted
Does balsamic vinegar go bad?
Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, balsamic vinegar may still be safe for a short while but quality drops and spoilage signs start. The date on the package is the maker's quality promise; the times here count from purchase unless marked "from the package date".
Two numbers to keep in mind: a fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below, and no more than 2 hours at room temperature (1 hour above 90 F / 32 C) for anything perishable.
How to tell balsamic vinegar has gone bad
General signs for condiments, sauces & canned goods, the group USDA lists balsamic vinegar 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.
How long do other condiments, sauces & canned goods last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.