Expiration & Storage Tips
When does rice vinegar expire?
Rice vinegar, when unopened, can last for about 5 years, even past the printed expiry date. However, you should always check the best-by date to ensure the highest quality. Once opened, rice vinegar will typically maintain the best quality for up to 2 years when stored in a cool, dark place. However, it can remain safe to consume indefinitely. Rice vinegar can be frozen, though it's not advised, as it can degrade the flavor quality. If you choose to freeze it anyway, it'll last indefinitely if kept frozen at 0°F.
How do you tell if rice vinegar is bad?
You can identify spoiled rice vinegar by a change in color, an off smell, or any visible mold. The flavor will be off, having lost its bright tartness, and may taste harsh or stale. One important thing to note is that some settling or cloudiness can occur in natural, unfiltered rice vinegar, which doesn't mean it's spoiled. Always use your best judgment.
Tips for storing rice vinegar to extend shelf life
• Always keep the rice vinegar bottle tightly sealed when not in use.
• Store it in a cool, dark place, like your pantry. Exposure to light and heat can spoil the vinegar faster.
• If your rice vinegar bottle has a pour spout or a cork, consider transferring it to a bottle that can be tightly sealed to prevent oxidation.
• Never put dirty or wet utensils in the bottle as this may introduce bacteria that can cause the vinegar to spoil.