Yes, buffalo sauce can go bad. While its high vinegar and salt content helps preserve it, it doesn't last indefinitely.
Buffalo sauce, like other hot sauces, has a shelf life. The exact timeframe depends on factors such as the ingredients, storage conditions, and whether it's commercially produced or homemade.
Shelf Life of Buffalo Sauce
- Commercially Produced (Unopened): Most commercial buffalo sauces have a "best by" date of 1-2 years from the date of manufacture, according to the USDA. This date indicates when the sauce is at its peak quality, but it doesn't necessarily mean it's unsafe to consume after that date.
- Commercially Produced (Opened): Once opened, commercially produced buffalo sauce can last for several months, especially if stored in the refrigerator.
- Homemade: Homemade buffalo sauce generally has a shorter shelf life due to the lack of preservatives found in commercial versions. It should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a week or two.
Factors Affecting Shelf Life
- Ingredients: Buffalo sauce typically consists of hot sauce (vinegar-based), butter, and spices. The vinegar in hot sauce acts as a preservative.
- Storage: Proper storage is crucial. Refrigeration is recommended after opening to slow down spoilage.
- Contamination: Introducing contaminants (e.g., using a dirty utensil) can significantly shorten the shelf life.
Signs of Spoilage
- Off Odor: A sour or unusual smell.
- Discoloration: Changes in color that are not typical.
- Mold Growth: Any visible mold.
- Change in Texture: A significant change in consistency.
If you observe any of these signs, it's best to discard the buffalo sauce.
