Relish lasts 30 months in the pantry and 9 months in the fridge.
Shelf life at a glance
Bars show the longest recommended time for each place. Scale runs from 1 hour to 2 years.
- 1Use within days
- 2Keeps a week or two
- 3Keeps for months
- 4Keeps a long time
Based on the longest fridge or pantry time.
About 150 more days in the fridge.
About 90 more days in the fridge.
It's inside the safe window but near the end. Eat it today or freeze it now.
Past the recommended fridge time. Even if it looks and smells fine, throw it out.
Past the recommended fridge time. Even if it looks and smells fine, throw it out.
Counted from the day it was cooked, opened or bought. Assumes a fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder.
Relish storage times by method
| Method | Duration | Temperature | Container | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pantry / counter | 30 months | 68–72°F | Airtight | cool, dry place |
| Refrigerator | 9 months | ≤ 40°F / 4°C | Airtight | at or below 40°F (4°C) |
Where to store relish
The door is the warmest part of the fridge, fine for condiments and drinks that resist spoilage.
Relish shelf life, answered
How long does relish last in the fridge?
9 months at 4°C (40°F) or colder. Keep it sealed so it does not pick up moisture or odours.
How long does relish last in the freezer?
Not listed. FoodKeeper gives no freezer time for relish.
How long does relish last at room temperature?
30 months in a cool, dry place.
How long is relish good for past the expiration date?
Relish past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How can you tell if relish is bad?
Fermented, yeasty or sour beyond the product's usual tang. Separation that does not stir back, or a slimy layer. Darkening or a change in colour at the top of the jar.
Signs relish has gone 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.
Can you freeze relish?
- 1Step 1
Most condiments keep well in the fridge and do not need freezing.
- 2Step 2
If freezing, use ice-cube trays or small containers and label them.
- 3Step 3
Thaw in the fridge and stir well; emulsions may separate.
Relish left out overnight
Relish is shelf-stable. A night on the counter is fine — keep it cool, dry and away from sunlight.
Best-by and use-by dates on relish
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened relish 30 months in the pantry or 9 months in the fridge, 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.
Past the date
Relish past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to store relish
- Freezing not recommended.
- Refrigerate after opening unless the label says otherwise.
- Use a clean utensil each time; crumbs and double-dipping shorten shelf life.
- Wipe the rim and close the lid tightly.
Relish vs similar foods
- Honey 2 years
- Mustard 1 year
- Relish 9 months
- Ketchup 6 months
- Mayonnaise 2 months
- Jarred salsa 1 month
- Soy sauce 1 month
Same scale as the timeline above: 1 hour to 2 years.
Check any food in seconds: when your leftovers expire, and whether something left out is still safe.
Similar foods
All condiments & sauces → Does it go bad? hub → Leftover calculator →Freezer time calculator →Left-out checker →