If ketchup is not opened, it can stay easily for 1 to 2 years if proper care is taken but it’s better to taste it before using if it’s not been used for a long time. The acidic condition makes the shelf life of ketchup very long, regardless of its ‘use by’ date or ‘ best by’ date. Moreover, if the ketchup is opened, it will last for up to 1 year only.
The ingredients used in making ketchup are sugar, tomatoes, and vinegar. The shelf life of opened ketchup is 1-2 years, and unopened ketchup is 1-year. There is no expiration date on ketchup just like other condiments, and thus you can safely use it even after the ‘best by’ date with your food. Again, make sure that you taste the ketchup before use.
Purchasing this food item
Ketchup and mustard sauce is known to reduce the risk of cancer. When buying the ketchup, look at the salt, sugar, calories, fat and sodium ratio carefully. There is a variety of ketchup available such as salty and organic ketchup as well. Make sure the ketchup you are buying can be safely used with your food and note the sugar content. It should not contribute to heterocyclic amines as more sugar can lead to this.
Storing this food item
Ketchup can be stored in the refrigerator to use for a long time in its own container. You can’t shift it to any other plastic or glass container; it stays better longer in its original bottle. If ketchup is unopened, you can keep it in the pantry in its original bottle, and it will stay safe for 1 year but once opened store it in the refrigerator. By storing the ketchup properly, you are increasing the shelf life and making it healthier to use as well.
How to Handle this Food Item
You can use the ketchup as it is because it’s cooked and packed in the container. It’s ready to use. Just before using ketchup taste a small amount to see if it’s okay or stale. According to food experts, always wash the bottle after your purchase, it might be stored in warehouses where different insects and flies can make it unsanitary.
Cooking this food item
Ketchup can be cooked and used in a number of ways such as:
- You can add ketchup to make salad dressing such as retro dressing- thousand island or Russian salad. It will add to the flavor of the salad.
- You can also make the cocktail sauce by adding ketchup to other sauces available at home.
- You can add ketchup in making pasta and lasagna.
- You can also make pizza sauce with ketchup.
- Add ketchup with barbecue sauce and enjoy it with delicious food items.
- By adding ketchup in meatballs, it makes them more delicious when eaten with rice.