Can I Eat Expired Mayonnaise Opened?

Safe up to 0 days after expirationLast updated: 6/5/2025

Safe to eat up to 0 days after expiry

Medium Risk

Expert Source

"Once opened, mayonnaise should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and used within 2 months for best quality." - CDC

Fresh Mayonnaise Opened

Fresh Mayonnaise Opened

⚠️Spoiled Mayonnaise Opened

Spoiled Mayonnaise Opened
📦

Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Fridge

Ideal Temperature

35-40°F (1.7-4.4°C)

Best Storage Method

Keep refrigerated in original container with lid tightly closed.

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

60 days

⚠️

Signs of Spoilage

Separation of oil, unusual odor, discoloration

ℹ️

Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Salad dressings, sandwich spreads, marinades

Possible Substitutions

Sour cream, yogurt

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Mayonnaise Opened?

Mayonnaise degrades over time due to the breakdown of ingredients like eggs and oil, leading to changes in texture and flavor. While mayonnaise typically has a long shelf life, consuming it past the expiration date can compromise both safety and taste. Best quality refers to peak flavor and consistency, while expiration indicates potential spoilage or reduced quality.

How can I tell if Mayonnaise Opened has gone bad?

To check if opened mayonnaise has gone bad, look for any mold growth, off-color changes, or a sour smell. Also, if the texture appears watery or separated, it's best to discard it to avoid any risk of food poisoning.

What are the food safety risks with Mayonnaise Opened?

Mayonnaise can pose a risk of foodborne illnesses such as Salmonella and Listeria due to its egg and oil content. To prevent contamination, always use clean utensils, refrigerate promptly after opening, and avoid cross-contamination with raw foods. High-risk scenarios include leaving mayonnaise out at room temperature for extended periods.

What are some pro tips for storing Mayonnaise Opened?

For optimal storage, keep mayonnaise refrigerated at all times to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. To extend shelf life, store mayonnaise in the coldest part of the refrigerator, away from the door. Avoid double-dipping utensils into the jar to prevent contamination, and tightly seal the lid after each use to preserve quality.

Any interesting facts about Mayonnaise Opened?

Mayonnaise was named after the city of Mahon in Menorca, Spain, where it was first documented. It gained popularity in France after being introduced by the chef of the Duc de Richelieu in the 18th century. Mayonnaise has cultural significance in various cuisines worldwide, such as being a key ingredient in dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, and sandwiches.

Expiration Calculator

📚

Sources

For more information on food safety and expiration guidelines, visit our Sources page.

🥘

Recipes Available

We have recipes that can help you safely use mayonnaise opened past its expiration date!

View Recipes →

Related Foods

🛡️

Reviewed By: Food Safety & Expiration Experts

At Can I Eat Expired, we are committed to providing accurate, science-backed information about food expiration and storage safety. Our content is carefully reviewed based on guidelines from leading food safety organizations, including:

🔍 How We Ensure Accuracy

  • We use official food safety sources to guide our recommendations.
  • Our team continuously reviews and updates content based on the latest research.
  • We encourage users to always check for signs of spoilage and follow proper storage guidelines.

📚 Have Questions?

If you have specific concerns about food expiration or safety, we recommend consulting a registered dietitian, food scientist, or your local health department.

Note: These are general guidelines. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.