Expiration & Storage Tips
When does poppy seed dressing expire?
Unopened, commercially made poppy seed dressing can typically last up to 1 year past the printed date on the package, as long as it's stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, if refrigerated, the dressing should stay fresh for around 1 to 2 months. However, homemade poppy seed dressing has a shorter shelf life due to the lack of preservatives - typically about 1 week in the refrigerator. If you decide to freeze your poppy seed dressing, it can extend its life for an additional 6 months.
How do you tell if poppy seed dressing is bad?
There are a few signs to tell if your poppy seed dressing has gone bad. First, take a look at it. If the dressing has changed color, usually becoming darker, that's the first sign it might be off. Secondly, smell it. If it has developed a sour or off smell, it's time to throw it out. Finally, taste a tiny bit. If the taste is off or sour, it's gone bad and should not be consumed.
Tips for storing poppy seed dressing to extend shelf life
• Always tightly seal the dressing container after each use to prevent air exposure.
• Refrigerate your dressing, even if unopened. The cooler temperature slows down the spoiling process.
• If you made a homemade batch, consider storing it in smaller containers to limit the amount of exposure to air each time you use it.
• If you have more dressing than you can use within the expiration timeframe, consider freezing it. To defrost, simply place in the refrigerator overnight.