Last Updated on September 28, 2022

Does Fish Sauce Go Bad?

An unopened bottle of fish sauce should easily last in good quality for a year after the best-by date or 3-4 years after bottling. According to Red Boat (again), an opened bottle of fish sauce that’s refrigerated should retain quality for at least a year.

Can you get sick from the expired fish sauce?

Fish sauce may experience changes in color and flavor as it ages, but it will not be harmful to consume unless an odor or a mold develops, then it must be discarded. The answer to this question is a bit complicated. Fish sauce is made by fermenting fish in salt water, and this fermentation process helps to preserve the sauce. As a result, fish sauce does not go bad in the same way that other food items do. However, it can lose its flavor over time, and it may also develop an off-putting smell. If fish sauce has been stored for a long time, it is generally safe to consume, but it may not taste very good. Of course, it is always important to use your own judgment when deciding whether or not to eat expired food items. If the fish sauce looks or smells bad, it is probably best to discard it.

How long does fish sauce last after opened?

Once opened, a bottle of fish sauce can last a long time — 2 to 3 years (maybe even longer).

Does fish sauce go bad if not refrigerated?

Shelf life: 2 to 3 years Fish sauce already has a long production and fermentation time, and it will sit just fine unrefrigerated. It may continue to ferment a bit and change slightly in flavor, but it is still safe to eat.

How do I know if fish sauce is bad?

What is this? If there are any signs of mold or yeast on the surface of the sauce or neck of the bottle, throw the condiment out. Same thing if the smell or color changed noticeably. If the condiment both looks and smells okay, taste it and decide if it’s good enough to use.

What should fish sauce smell like?

Fish sauce has an earthy, savoury flavor field. It is salty and briny and there’s a distinct, pungent smell to the sauce as well. The boldness of the sauce pairs wonderfully with meat in marinades and glazes, giving the dish a complex flavor.

How long can I keep fish sauce?

Properly stored, unopened or opened fish sauce will generally stay at best quality for about 3 to 4 years at normal room temperature. To maximize the shelf life of fish sauce, keep the container tightly closed when not in use.

What does bad fish sauce smell like?

Some people don’t like this fishy odor, but it doesn’t stay that strong when added to a meal. In fact, this condiment will provide a rich flavor you will adore. Once the product goes bad, you will notice a rotten odor. That is the sure sign this product is not edible anymore.

How do you store fish sauce after opening?

Store it in a cool dark place, like the pantry, and away from any hot areas in your kitchen, like directly above the stove. You should avoid storing fish sauce in the fridge because cold temperatures will cause the salt to crystallize over time.

How long does fish sauce stay good?

In most cases, you can keep an unopened fish sauce bottle for a year after the best-by date printed on the label. It is approximately a period of three to four years after bottling.