Expiration & Storage Tips
When does orange sauce expire?
Store-bought orange sauce, unopened, can last in your pantry for up to 12 months if stored at constant room temperature, but once opened needs to be refrigerated and typically lasts for 1-2 weeks after the printed date on the package. However, if you freeze it, the sauce can extend its life for up to 6 months. Homemade orange sauce, if properly refrigerated, can last for about a week, and if frozen, up to a month.
How do you tell if orange sauce is bad?
You can tell if orange sauce has gone bad by checking for visible molds, discoloration, or an off smell. If the sauce has separated or changed color, that's another sign that it may be time to discard. Any signs of fermentation like bubbles, a sour smell or a slightly sour or tangy taste are also clues that it’s past its prime.
Tips for storing orange sauce to extend shelf life
• Store the orange sauce in a cool, dry, dark place if unopened.
• Once opened, it's best to keep it in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator.
• Making homemade orange sauce? Cool it to room temperature before storing it in the fridge, to prevent condensation and bacterial growth.
• For long-term storage, freeze the sauce in smaller portions, using a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for easy use.
• Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight or on the 'defrost' setting of your microwave if you're using it right away.