How Long Mayo Will Still Taste Good After Opening

It's rich, tangy, and delicious. Mayonnaise isn't just a condiment, it's a way of life. From Kewpie Mayonnaise enthusiasts to Duke Mayonnaise fans (one of which is Alton Brown), there is no shortage of enthusiasm for the creamy condiment. And there is no wonder as to why. Mayonnaise is a kitchen essential. Mayonnaise is a great surprise addition to a supremely rich chocolate cake, the essential finishing touch to a perfect BLT, and a wonderful dip for fries, among other uses. With that being said, mayonnaise can sometimes be taken for granted — often relegated to the shelves of one's fridge for months at a time, used intermittently, and without much thought. But if you're hoping to get the best taste out of your mayo, it's important to consider freshness. So, how long will that jar of mayo taste good after you open it? 

The answer is that it depends. Several factors impact how long your mayo stays fresh and delicious. The emulsified blend of egg yolks, oil, and vinegar or lemon juice is known for its long shelf life. An unopened jar of commercially produced mayonnaise can last for three months at room temperature, and could last from several months to a year when stored in a cool place like a refrigerator. However, things change once your mayonnaise is opened. Once opened, commercially produced mayonnaise typically lasts about two months in the fridge, and it should maintain its flavor for this time. After this time, things get a bit more complicated. And there are certain factors to consider when deciding whether to get a scoop of mayo from that faithful refrigerator jar.

Along with making sure you're eating store-bought mayonnaise within a two-month timeframe after opening it is also important to consider your mayonnaise's "best by" date when determining whether or not to reach for the jar. If your jar is past this date, it is probably best to toss it. For homemade mayonnaise, the shelf life is much shorter, as it doesn't contain the same preservatives as commercially produced mayonnaise. Homemade mayonnaise should only be kept for one week in the fridge before tossing. 

Of course, there are ways to help extend your store-bought mayo's shelf-life. For one, you should keep your mayonnaise in the refrigerator, avoiding high heat. And don't think that freezing your mayo is a good way to extend its shelf life, as freezing mayo will only cause it to separate and damage its texture. Instead, always keep your mayo in the fridge, keep its top on, and use clean utensils when scooping out your mayo. This will ensure that your mayo stays fresh as long as possible. 

But how can you tell if your mayonnaise has turned? Well, there are a few telltale signs that your mayo has spoiled. If your mayo is lumpy, smells off, or has mold, it's best to toss the jar. Also, if your mayo has changed colors, you should avoid eating it. And as always, if your mayonnaise tastes, well, off, then you should go ahead and buy a new jar.