Expiration & Storage Tips
When does mango chutney expire?
An unopened store-bought jar of mango chutney can keep for upto 2 years in your pantry, when stored with proper conditions. However, make sure to keep a check on the 'use by' date on the label. Once the jar is opened, it's best to store it in the fridge and use it within a month for the best flavour. On the other hand, homemade mango chutney is a different story, it doesn't have the same preservatives that the store-bought versions have. After canning, it can be stored unopened in the pantry for up to a year. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within two weeks to a month. Lastly, if you decide to freeze your mango chutney (which isn't a common practice), it keeps well for upto 6 months, though there might be a slight change in texture once thawed.
How do you tell if mango chutney is bad?
To understand if your mango chutney has gone bad, first, look for visible signs of mold or strange colours that differ from its usual golden-yellow to orange hue. Second, give the chutney a good whiff. A foul or unusually strong smell is a definite indication it's time to let go of your chutney. Lastly, if you notice any changes in texture or flavour when you taste it, it's safe to say the chutney is past its prime.
Tips for storing mango chutney to extend shelf life
• Always store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight before opening.
• After opening the jar, ensure you refrigerate your chutney promptly, and try to use a clean, dry spoon whenever you take some out to minimize contamination.
• For homemade chutneys, make sure the jars are sterilized before use to ensure a longer shelf life.
• Freezing is an option if you want to keep your chutney longer, but remember to leave some headspace in your container since the chutney will expand as it freezes.