Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Refrigerate
once opened
In the fridgeFridge
6 months
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Not listed
no FoodKeeper figure
On the counterCounter
1 year
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
Not needed
shelf-stable
In the freezerFreezer
Not needed
keeps without freezing
Quick answer
Yes. Ketchup lasts 6 months in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if ketchup is bad
Smell
Fermented, yeasty or sour beyond the product's usual tang.
Texture
Separation that does not stir back, or a slimy layer.
Colour
Darkening or a change in colour at the top of the jar.
Mould
Any fuzz on the surface or lid — discard the jar.
Ketchup past the expiration date
Unopened
FoodKeeper gives unopened ketchup 1 year in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Opened
Once opened, the printed date no longer applies. Count 6 months in the fridge from the day you open it.
How to keep ketchup fresh longer
- Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial ketchup, cocktail sauce, and chili sauce are safe when stored at room temperature after opening. Quality, not safety, is the reason the labels on these products suggest that they be refrigerated after opening.
- Refrigerate after opening unless the label says otherwise.
- Use a clean utensil each time; crumbs and double-dipping shorten shelf life.
More about ketchup
FAQ
How long does it take for ketchup to go bad?
6 months in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can ketchup expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened ketchup 1 year in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad ketchup?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep ketchup from going bad?
Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial ketchup, cocktail sauce, and chili sauce are safe when stored at room temperature after opening. Quality, not safety, is the reason the labels on these products suggest that they be refrigerated after opening.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number