Condiments, Sauces & Canned Goods

Salad dressingscommercial, bottled

1–3 months in the fridge after opening and 10–12 months in the pantry from the date of purchase.

Pantry

from purchase: 10–12 months

Fridge

after opening: 1–3 months

Freezer

No USDA guidance

Storage tips

Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial salad dressing is 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.

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeperHow to read these times

Common questions

How long do salad dressings (commercial, bottled) last in the fridge?

1–3 months after opening.

How long do salad dressings (commercial, bottled) last in the pantry?

10–12 months from the date of purchase.

How can I tell if salad dressings (commercial, bottled) have gone bad?

Throw it out if it smells off, feels slimy or sticky, shows mold, or has changed color. Storage times assume it was handled safely and kept cold the whole time.