Jarred horseradish can last unopened for up to 12-18 months past the printed expiration date. Once opened, it will last for about 4-6 weeks in the refrigerator. Here are some quick answers about how long horseradish lasts:
Unopened Jarred Horseradish
An unopened jar of prepared horseradish will generally stay at best quality for about 1 to 2 years past the printed expiration date on the jar, as long as it has been stored properly in a cool, dark place. The acidic environment of the vinegar and preservatives help prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.
Opened Jarred Horseradish
Once opened, jarred horseradish that has been continuously refrigerated will stay good for about 4 to 6 weeks after opening. Check for signs of spoilage like mold growth, off-smells, or texture changes.
Identifying Bad Horseradish
Signs that prepared horseradish has gone bad include:
- Mold or fuzzy growths
- Dry, faded texture instead of smooth, creamy consistency
- Bitter, vinegar-like smell
- Off odors
- Soft or slimy texture
If you see any of these signs, it’s best to discard the horseradish. Don’t taste horseradish that you suspect may be spoiled.
Storing Horseradish Properly
To get the longest shelf life out of prepared horseradish:
- Store unopened horseradish in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigerate opened horseradish in an airtight container.
- Keep the lid tightly sealed between uses.
- Use a clean spoon each time to avoid cross contamination.
- Don’t let the horseradish come in contact with your hands, as the oils can irritate skin.
Freezing Horseradish
You can store prepared horseradish in the freezer to extend its shelf life even further. Freeze it in an airtight container, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace to allow for expansion. It will keep for 6 to 8 months in the freezer before losing quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Can You Freeze Fresh Horseradish Roots?
Fresh, unprocessed horseradish root can also be frozen. To freeze:
- Wash, peel, and chop or grate the fresh horseradish.
- Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to freezer bags or airtight containers, removing as much air as possible.
- It will last about 3 months in the freezer.
How to Tell If Horseradish Has Gone Bad
Here are some signs that horseradish has spoiled and should be discarded:
Appearance
- Moldy spots or fuzzy growth
- Dry, faded texture instead of creamy and smooth
- Separated liquid at the top of the jar
- Soft, slimy, or mushy consistency
Smell
- Vinegar-like, bitter odor
- Rotten or fermented smell
- Very pungent, harsh aroma (more so than normal)
Taste
- Bitter, vinegary flavor
- Unpleasant aftertaste
- Not as spicy as it should be
How to Store Horseradish Properly
Here are some tips for storing horseradish to extend its shelf life:
Unopened Horseradish
- Store in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
- An unopened jar can be kept for 1-2 years past its printed expiration date.
Opened Horseradish
- Refrigerate in an airtight container.
- Make sure the lid is sealed tightly after each use.
- Use a clean utensil each time to avoid cross-contamination.
- Will last for 4-6 weeks in the fridge after opening.
Freezing Horseradish
- Freeze in airtight containers, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
- Lasts for 6-8 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
An unopened jar of prepared horseradish can be safely stored for up to 12-18 months past the printed date if stored properly in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it will last for about 4-6 weeks in the refrigerator if tightly sealed between uses. Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage like mold, odor changes, or texture changes. Freezing can further extend the shelf life. Fresh horseradish roots can also be frozen for long-term storage. Properly stored horseradish can keep well past its printed date, allowing you to enjoy its spicy kick for many meals to come.
