You’re probably here because you’ve dug out an old jar of mustard stored away in the cupboard and are left wondering:
How long did mustard keep its freshness?
Are you looking for us to share the news early?
Good news! Mustard lasts well past its expiration.
Here’s the bad news It’s considered a perishable good, and mustard most certainly does go bad.
High in calcium, copper and magnesium as well as selenium and vitamins A, B, and K.The mustard plant is This versatile ingredient can be added to any of your favorite soups or stews.
You can read on to learn how to ensure your mustard stays fresh, its shelf life, and what the best storage methods are.
How to tell if Mustard has Gone Missing
So you’re looking at your 1-year-old jar of mustard and thinking: This can I still use? Lucky for you, it’s pretty easy to identify if your mustard has gone off:
- Mold. If you notice any signs of organic growth on the inside of the jar, then it’s time to chuck it!
- Odor. You can take a sniff of mustard or other strange ingredients and then toss it in the trash.
- Expiration date. While it’s commonly known that mustard does last past its expiration date, risk trying it at your own peril! You can bet the mustard jar may have been on the shelves for weeks prior to you buying it. If the mustard seems fine but is already past the best-by date by 1 or 2 years, it’s time to discard it.
This tip is importantUse a clean spoon to scoop out the mustard from your container. You can find this in the Can. You can directly influence the growth of bacteria in mustard, which will speed up mold formation.
How to store mustard

No matter what type your mustard is, you should keep it in cool and dark places, far from heat or sunlight.
It is possible to store A jar, or bottle that is not opened at room temperature would be best.
On a hot summer’s day, perhaps your mustard will need to be refrigerated.
Mustard jars and bottles should be kept closed until used. This will ensure that the condiment is safe and fresh.
The product’s good quality flavor will maintain for two or three months after the date of refrigeration, but it’s not necessary to refrigerate your mustard if you prefer to consume your mustard at room temperature.
Make mustard by freezing You can expect it to last another three to four more monthsThis can be very useful.
The type of mustard will determine how long the mustard stays good. We’ll give you a top to bottom show of these below.
What is the Shelf Life of Mustard?

You can find many varieties of mustard. Mustards with garlic Acidity levels that are higherDijon mustard will keep its shape longer than other mustards like honey mustard.
Dijon mustard can still be used in unopened containers. You can store it for as long as two or three years.
Be sure it’s kept away from any heat or moisture, like any type of mustard. It can be opened once it is sealed, but will last approximately one year.
When unopened, Chinese and American mustard can last around one-two years. But, once opened, they will be good for approximately one year.
Honey mustard can be kept in the fridge for as long as three weeks if it is tightly sealed and not exposed to any other objects. Since Honey mustard doesn’t last as long as other mustards, freezing might be a better option for you.
So…Does Mustard Go Off?
Unfortunately, Yes, it is.
But, if you want to keep your mustard thriving for longer, be sure to follow the prior preservation techniques, and rest assured, it’s really easy to tell if your mustard is off.
Remember: Keep your mustard cool and dark.