How long does black bean sauce last?
In the fridge, black bean sauce keeps for 3 to 6 months after opening. In the pantry, it keeps for 18 to 24 months from the package date. Once opened, use it within 3 to 6 months.
18 to 24 months
from the package date
3 to 6 months
after opening
3 to 6 months
in the fridge unless noted
Does black bean sauce go bad?
Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, black bean sauce 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 black bean sauce has gone bad
General signs for condiments, sauces & canned goods, the group USDA lists black bean 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.
How long do other condiments, sauces & canned goods last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.