How Long Does Ketchup (Opened) Last in the Fridge?
Written by Jordan Morley · Storage times from the USDA FoodKeeper database · Last updated 28 October 2026
Ketchup (Opened) keeps for 6 months in a fridge running at 0–5°C.
Storage tips for ketchup (opened)
- Fridge at 0–5°C. A fridge thermometer is the cheapest food-safety upgrade — many home fridges run warmer than their dial suggests.
- Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial ketchup, cocktail sauce, and chili sauce are safe when stored at room temperature after opening. Quality, not safety, is the reason the labels on these products suggest that they be refrigerated after opening.
You can also check the calorie content of ketchup (opened) alongside its safety information. Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
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Store it properly
Fridge thermometer
These storage times assume 0–5°C — check what your fridge actually runs at.
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More storage essentials
Vacuum food sealer
Removes the air that speeds spoilage — extends shelf life by days.
Check Price →Airtight glass containers
Fridge, freezer and microwave safe — one less transfer step.
Check Price →Ketchup (Opened) next to similar foods
| Food | Fridge time |
|---|---|
| Olive and Vegetable Oils | 4 months |
| Full-Fat Soy Flour | 6 months |
| Ketchup (Opened) | 6 months |
| Nut Oils | 6–8 months |
| Wholemeal Flour | 6–8 months |
Of the 18 cupboard and condiment foods with a fridge time in this guide, ketchup (Opened) keeps for longer than 11, the same time as 1 and less time than 5.
Ketchup (Opened): the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| Left out overnight (Opened Ketchup) | Yes — generally fine |
Common questions
How long does ketchup (opened) last in the fridge?
6 months in a fridge running at 0–5°C (USDA FoodKeeper guidance). After that, quality and safety both start to slip, and because the bacteria that cause food poisoning are invisible, ‘it seems fine’ is not a reliable test. When in doubt, throw it out.
How can I tell if ketchup (opened) has gone off?
Rancid or stale smells, clumping, insects, mould and bulging, leaking or rusted tins are all reasons to throw it away. Do not rely on this alone: the time guideline matters even when everything looks fine.
Can I freeze ketchup (opened) to keep it longer?
Freezing is not recommended for this food; the texture tends to suffer badly. Buy or cook only what you will use in time.
Can I keep ketchup (opened) out of the fridge?
Yes, for a short time only: around 1 year in the cupboard or at room temperature. Refrigeration ensures that commercial sauces and condiments stay fresh for a longer period of time. Shelf-stable commercial ketchup, cocktail sauce, and chili sauce are safe when stored at room temperature after opening. Quality, not safety, is the reason the labels on these products suggest that they be refrigerated after opening.
Related answers
Primary source: USDA FoodKeeper.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.