How do you know if Ketchup (opened) has gone bad?

Mould around the rim, darkening colour; Sour or fermented smell; Watery separation or fizzing. Normal smell and appearance do not prove safety. Never taste food to check safety; consider storage history and product instructions.

How long does opened Ketchup (opened) last in the fridge?

Ketchup (opened) — refrigerator (after opening): 6–9 months. Exact evidence is still under review; follow the product label.

How Long Does Ketchup (Opened) Last?

Ketchup (Opened): 6–9 months in the refrigerator after opening. These are listed storage intervals; check each card for exact evidence and conditions. Freezer intervals describe quality.

2 cited USDA/FDA/FSIS sources
Editorial review · Editorial record: June 2026

Each card identifies whether its interval has an exact source or is still under review. A missing card means no interval is available for that state.
Unopened and after-opening entries are separate. Use only the tab that matches your product state.

A little watery separation is normal — just stir or shake. Discard ketchup that smells fermented or shows mould.

How to tell if it's gone bad

Normal appearance and smell do not prove food is safe. Disease-causing bacteria may be present without visible spoilage. Never taste food to test its safety; follow time, temperature and recall guidance. FDA — Storage Basics

Look:Mould around the rim, darkening colour
Smell:Sour or fermented smell
Texture:Watery separation or fizzing

When in doubt, throw it out. If Ketchup (Opened) smells, looks, or feels off — discard it. Food poisoning is not worth the risk.

Storage tips

Refrigerate ketchup after opening for the best colour and flavour, and wipe the cap so dried residue does not harbour mould.

Check your storage dates

Compare the elapsed time with the storage guidance. This cannot certify that food is safe.

FDA — Storage Basics / Freezer Facts

Common questions

How long does opened Ketchup (opened) last in the fridge?: Ketchup (opened) — refrigerator (after opening): 6–9 months. Exact evidence is still under review; follow the product label.

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