Yes, tartar sauce does go bad, but how quickly depends on several factors. Proper storage significantly impacts its shelf life.
Shelf Life of Tartar Sauce
- Unopened: An unopened bottle of tartar sauce, stored in a cool, dry place, can last up to 12-18 months, though it may still be safe to consume beyond that date. The best quality is maintained within the timeframe. [Source: Still Tasty]
- Opened and Refrigerated: Once opened, tartar sauce should be refrigerated. In the refrigerator, it will maintain its best quality for approximately six months. [Source: Business Insider, Still Tasty]
- Opened and Unrefrigerated: Leaving opened tartar sauce at room temperature is risky. It should be treated similarly to mayonnaise, with a maximum shelf life of a few hours. [Source: Reddit]
Identifying Spoiled Tartar Sauce
Several signs indicate that your tartar sauce has gone bad:
- Expiration Date: Check the bottle for the printed expiration date. Discard the sauce if it's past this date.
- Smell: A sour or off-putting odor is a clear indication of spoilage.
- Texture: Changes in texture, such as becoming runny or separating, suggest the sauce has gone bad.
- Appearance: Mold growth or unusual color changes also signal spoilage.
Homemade Tartar Sauce
Homemade tartar sauce, lacking preservatives found in commercially produced versions, will spoil more quickly. Expect a shelf life of only a few days if not refrigerated. [Source: Quora]
