Can I Eat Expired Sriracha?

Safe up to 365 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 365 days after expiry

Low Risk

Expert Source

"According to USDA guidelines, opened bottles of Sriracha should be refrigerated and used within 6 months for best quality."

Fresh Sriracha

Fresh Sriracha

⚠️Spoiled Sriracha

Spoiled Sriracha
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Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Pantry

Ideal Temperature

50°F (10°C)

Best Storage Method

Keep in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

730 days

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Signs of Spoilage

Change in color, separation of ingredients, off smell

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Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Marinades, dipping sauce, flavoring for soups and stir-fries

Possible Substitutions

Hot sauce, chili paste

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Sriracha does not spoil easily due to its high vinegar and chili content. However, over time, its color may darken and flavors may diminish. The 'best by' date is more about quality rather than safety. As long as the sauce looks and smells fine, it is usually safe to consume beyond the expiration date.

How can I tell if Sriracha has gone bad?

To determine if Sriracha has gone bad, look for signs of discoloration, mold growth, or separation of ingredients. Check for any off or sour smell, as well as a change in texture, such as becoming unusually thick or slimy. If you notice any of these indicators, it's best to discard the Sriracha to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

What are the food safety risks with Sriracha?

Sriracha, being a fermented hot sauce, is generally safe due to its high acidity and capsaicin content which inhibit bacterial growth. However, if stored improperly or contaminated, there is a slight risk of botulism. To prevent this, always refrigerate after opening, avoid cross-contamination, and check for signs of spoilage.

What are some pro tips for storing Sriracha?

For optimal Sriracha storage, keep it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can help preserve its color and flavor, but it may slightly thicken. Shake the bottle before use to redistribute any settled solids and enjoy the full spicy kick.

Any interesting facts about Sriracha?

Sriracha originated in Thailand and is named after the coastal city of Si Racha. It gained worldwide popularity after Vietnamese immigrants in the US started using it in pho and other dishes. The iconic rooster logo on the bottle is a trademark of Huy Fong Foods.

Expiration Calculator

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Sources

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

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Recipes Available

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

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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.