Expiration & Storage Tips
When does english mustard expire?
English mustard, when unopened and kept in a cool, dry place, can last up to 2 years past the printed expiration date. Once opened, if it's stored in the refrigerator, it can last for about a year. If, after opening, the mustard is held at room temperature, it'll retain its best quality for about a month. If you have frozen it (in a tightly sealed container), it can last indefinitely, but it's best used within a year for optimal quality.
How do you tell if english mustard is bad?
Knowing if English mustard has gone bad is fairly simple. The easiest way is to check the smell and texture. If it smells less pungent than usual, or has altered in color or consistency (perhaps appearing more watery or clumpy), it is likely that it has gone bad. Any formation of mold is an obvious sign of spoilage as well. Even though it may not cause foodborne illness, the taste won't be at its peak, which, let's admit it, is one of the reasons we love it.
Tips for storing english mustard to extend shelf life
• Always store unopened English mustard in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
• Once opened, make sure to tightly reseal the jar or bottle and store it in a cold part of your refrigerator to extend its shelf life.
• While freezing it is an option, it's certainly not necessary or commonly done due to its long shelf life. If you decide to freeze it though, make sure it’s stored in a tightly-sealed container. To defrost, simply transfer it to the fridge a day or two before you need to use it.
• To keep your mustard fresh for longer, always use a clean utensil when scooping it out. This prevents contaminants from entering the container that could potentially curtail its longevity.