Expiration & Storage Tips
When does sweet pickle relish expire?
Unopened bottles of sweet pickle relish can last about a year beyond the printed date if stored properly, maybe even longer if kept cool and dark. Once the jar or bottle is opened, ensure that it's refrigerated. This way, it can last up to 9 months to a year. In regard to freezing, relish contains a high percentage of vinegar and sugar, which makes freezing unnecessary and not recommended due to potential degradation in texture and taste. If you freeze it anyways, it's good for 10-12 months.
How do you tell if sweet pickle relish is bad?
To tell if your sweet pickle relish has gone bad, you'll have to rely largely on your senses. Check for any unusual color changes, a weird smell or any presence of mold. Any of these indications mean that it has spoiled and should be discarded. If it doesn’t have any off-putting signs but the taste is off or lackluster, it's probably degraded over time and is best to be replaced.
Tips for storing sweet pickle relish to extend shelf life
• Always seal the jar or bottle tightly after use. This prevents entry of air and bacteria.
• Always use a clean, dry utensil if scooping out the relish. Using a dirty or wet utensil can introduce bacteria into the jar, speeding up the spoilage process.
• Store your jar of sweet pickle relish at the back of the fridge, where the temperature stays relatively constant. Frequent temperature fluctuation can lead to quicker spoilage.
• Try not to store the jar in the door shelves of the refrigerator — opening and closing the door often leads to temperature fluctuations.