How Long Do Condiments Last?

We're all guilty of storing condiments in the fridge or pantry only to completely forget about them until months later. Expiration dates are usually solid guidelines for when to throw something out, but even once open, the quality of a product can start to decline. It's also important to keep in mind that anything homemade will have a shorter shelf life than a product purchased at the store.

Below we've put together a guide based on studies and brand recommendations for knowing when to pull the plug. In the end, use your best judgment: If something doesn't smell or look right to you, toss it and open a new bottle.

According to French's, an unopened glass jar of mustard lasts for two years, and a squeeze bottle for 18 months. Once it's been opened, it's probably good for about a year when stored in the refrigerator. Although mustard does not require refrigeration, it will definitely extend the shelf life.

If you like spicy food, then you probably have a collection of hot sauces in your pantry. Open bottles of hot sauce kept in a cool, dry place can usually last a couple of years; however, some brands, like Cholula, recommend consuming them within the first six months of opening. There's also some debate over whether or not to refrigerate Sriracha, so we asked our fans and 57 percent so far said it should be refrigerated. While the jury's still out, make sure to give your bottle a good sniff if it's collecting dust in your kitchen.

Lucky for you and your morning scone, an opened jar of jelly or jam is usually good for about a year when stored properly in the fridge. Smucker's points out on its website that its fruit spreads are good for up to 24 months from the date of production and recommend they are used within one year of being purchased.