Expiration & Storage Tips
When does cayenne pepper sauce expire?
If unopened, a bottle of cayenne pepper sauce can last approximately 2-3 years beyond the printed date on the package when stored at room temperature. However, if you've opened the bottle, it should retain its quality for around 5-6 months when stored in the fridge. If you've frozen it, expect a quality loss over time, but it should be safe to consume indefinitely.
How do you tell if cayenne pepper sauce is bad?
You'll be able to tell that your cayenne pepper sauce has gone bad if there's a noticeable change in color, it develops an off smell, or mold appears in the bottle. If any of these signs appear, it's best to discard the sauce, even if it's within its expiration date. Smell and visual checks are crucial here.
Tips for storing cayenne pepper sauce to extend shelf life
• Store your unopened cayenne pepper sauce in a cool, dark place like a pantry or a cabinet. Temperature fluctuations can affect its quality, so avoid storing it near heat sources like the stove or oven.
• Once opened, always reseal the bottle tightly and refrigerate it. This keeps the sauce fresh longer and helps maintain its flavor and spice level.
• If you use pepper sauce sparingly and want to prolong its shelf life, consider decanting it into smaller bottles and freezing it. Remember to leave some headroom for expansion though!
• Always use clean utensils when dealing with your sauce to avoid introducing microbes that could lead to spoilage.