You might have seen those commercials for a popular BBQ sauce that says, “No need to refrigerate!” But does that mean you can indefinitely store it on the counter top or pantry? Does BBQ Sauce need to be refrigerated? What about all the other BBQ sauces on the market? Do they all share the same rule?
The answer is it depends. Some BBQ sauces do not need to be refrigerated, while others should always be stored in the fridge. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of refrigerating BBQ sauce so you can make the best decision for your needs.
Does BBQ Sauce Need To Be Refrigerated?
The answer to this question depends on the BBQ sauce in question. Some sauces, such as those made with ketchup, must be refrigerated. However, many BBQ sauces, such as those made with vinegar, do not need to be refrigerated.
Generally, if the BBQ sauce has been opened, it should be refrigerated, and this is because an open container is more susceptible to bacteria growth. However, if the BBQ sauce has been unopened, it can be stored at room temperature.
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How Do You Store BBQ Sauce?
So, you’ve got a bottle of BBQ sauce—now what? How can you store it in order to keep it fresh?
Ideally, you’ll want to refrigerate your BBQ sauce. This will help to keep the flavors strong and stop the sauce from spoiling. If you don’t have room in your fridge, you can store it in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Just make sure to keep it out of direct sunlight and heat and shake it up every once in a while to keep the ingredients mixed together.
What Happens If You Don’t Refrigerate BBQ Sauce?
If you’re not sure whether you should refrigerate your BBQ sauce or not, you’re not alone. Many people are unsure about this because there’s so much puzzling information out there.
Some people will tell you that BBQ sauce absolutely needs to be refrigerated, while others will say that it’s OK to keep it on the counter. So what’s the truth?
Well, it depends according to the particular type of BBQ sauce that you have. If it’s a homemade sauce, then it’s best to refrigerate it in order to keep it safe. But if you have a store-bought sauce, chances are it doesn’t need to be refrigerated.
How Long Does Refrigerated BBQ Sauce Last?
Now that you know whether or not you should refrigerate your BBQ sauce, the next question is: how long will it last? The answer will depend on the type of BBQ sauce that you have.
A commercially made, bottled BBQ sauce will usually last for about 6-12 months if stored in a cool, dark place. However, if you make your BBQ sauce from scratch, it will only last 2-3 days in the fridge. So it’s really important to label and date your homemade sauce so you know when it’s time to throw it out!
How Can You Tell If BBQ Sauce Has Gone Bad?
Most BBQ sauces will last for a few months when stored at room temperature, but I always recommend refrigerating them to be on the safe side.
One telltale sign that your BBQ sauce has gone bad is if it starts to smell sour or unpleasant. If you notice any funky smells, it’s best to toss it out and get a new bottle. Additionally, if the sauce starts to change color or become thicker, it’s time to chuck it.
Tips For Storing BBQ Sauce
There’s nothing like the taste of homemade BBQ sauce, but sometimes it’s hard to know how to store it, so it lasts. Here are a few tips for keeping your sauce at its best:
- Cool and dark places like a pantry or cupboard is the best place to store BBQ sauce.
- Make sure to put it in a covered container or jar if you store it in a fridge.
- The sauce will stay in the fridge for up to two months if it’s stored properly.
- You can also freeze BBQ sauce for up to six months. Thawing it out before using it is also recommended.
Can You Freeze BBQ Sauce?
There’s a lot of debate on the question, “does BBQ sauce need to be refrigerated?”. The short answer is: it depends. Some sauces can last for months in the fridge, while others need to be frozen to stay safe.
If you’re unsure whether your sauce needs to be refrigerated, it’s best to be on the side of caution and put it in the fridge. That way, you can rest assured that your sauce is safe to eat. And if you do end up freezing it, thaw it out before using it.
Ingredients That Make BBQ Sauce Go Bad
There are a few ingredients in BBQ sauce that can go bad over time, so it’s best to refrigerate it. These include:
- Sugar: When sugar is exposed to air, it can start to form crystals. These crystals can make the sauce gritty and unpleasant to eat.
- Vinegar: Vinegar is a type of acid that can turn into vinegar bacteria over time. This bacteria can cause the sauce to spoil and smell bad.
- Tomato paste: Tomato paste is a high-acid ingredient that can become sour and unpleasant-tasting over time.
Conclusion
Does BBQ Sauce need to be refrigerated? Yes, BBQ sauce needs to be refrigerated. The high acid and sugar content in the sauce can cause bacteria to grow quickly, so it’s essential to keep the sauce cold. Not only will refrigerating the sauce help keep it safe to eat, but it will also help preserve the flavor of the sauce. Be aware of the expiry date when you use BBQ sauce too. As long as it is refrigerated, better shelf life is guaranteed. So, always ensure that you keep your BBQ Sauce refrigerated.
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