Can I Eat Expired Sesame Oil?

Safe up to 180 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 180 days after expiry

Medium Risk❄️ Can be frozen

Expert Source

"Sesame oil should be stored in a cool, dark place away from heat sources and direct sunlight. It is recommended to use sesame oil within 6 months to a year for optimal quality and flavor." - FDA

Fresh Sesame Oil

Fresh Sesame Oil

⚠️Spoiled Sesame Oil

Spoiled Sesame Oil
📦

Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Pantry

Ideal Temperature

Room temperature

Best Storage Method

Store in a cool, dark place

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

365 days

Extended Shelf Life (When Frozen)

180 days

⚠️

Signs of Spoilage

Rancid smell, off flavor

ℹ️

Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Use in Asian dishes or dressings

Possible Substitutions

Peanut oil, olive oil

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil, like other oils, does not have a strict expiration date but rather a best-by date. The best-by date indicates the period during which the oil will be at its peak quality in terms of flavor and aroma. After this date, the oil may still be safe to consume but could have diminished quality. It's important to check for signs of rancidity such as a sour smell or taste before using sesame oil past its best-by date.

How can I tell if Sesame Oil has gone bad?

To check if Sesame Oil has gone bad, look for any changes in color, such as it turning darker or cloudy. Give it a sniff - if it smells rancid or off, it's no longer good. Additionally, if the texture feels thicker or slimy, it's best to discard it.

What are the food safety risks with Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil, like other oils, is susceptible to rancidity due to oxidation. When sesame oil turns rancid, it develops an off flavor, odor, and a darker color. Rancid oil should not be consumed as it can cause digestive issues and may lead to foodborne illnesses. To prevent rancidity, store sesame oil properly in a cool, dark place away from heat and light sources.

What are some pro tips for storing Sesame Oil?

To extend the shelf life of sesame oil, store it in a tightly sealed container to prevent exposure to air, which can accelerate oxidation. Keep the oil away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as light and heat can degrade the quality of the oil. For long-term storage, consider refrigerating sesame oil, especially if you live in a warm climate. Before each use, give the bottle a quick sniff to ensure the oil has not turned rancid.

Any interesting facts about Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil has a long history of culinary and medicinal use in various cultures. It is commonly used in Asian cuisines, especially in dishes from countries like China, Japan, Korea, and India. In traditional Chinese medicine, sesame oil is believed to have warming properties and is used to promote circulation and overall health. Additionally, sesame oil is rich in antioxidants and is known for its nutty flavor and aroma, which adds a unique touch to dishes.

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 sesame oil 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.