Shelf Life Tips
- How long does balsamic vinegar last? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions — to maximize the shelf life of balsamic vinegar, store in a cool, dark cupboard, away from direct heat or sunlight.
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To maximize the shelf life of balsamic vinegar, keep the bottle tightly sealed after opening.
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How long does balsamic vinegar last at room temperature? Properly stored, balsamic vinegar will generally stay at best quality for about 3 years, but will stay safe indefinitely.
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Is balsamic vinegar safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided it is properly stored and the package is undamaged — commercially packaged balsamic vinegar will typically carry a "Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before," or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the balsamic vinegar will remain at peak quality.
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Does balsamic vinegar ever spoil? No, commercially packaged balsamic vinegar does not spoil, but the appearance and flavor may start to deteriorate over time — the storage time shown is for best quality only.
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Is cloudy balsamic vinegar safe to use? Yes: over time, balsamic vinegar may become cloudy - this is not harmful; the vinegar will still be safe to consume if it has been stored properly.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
