It probably won’t kill you…

Many people store their hot sauce in the refrigerator — my parents did — so I do. [ I am talking about after opening! ] I assumed that you had to and that it would last longer and maintain its flavor. However, contrary to popular belief, hot sauce does not need to be refrigerated in most cases.

Why not refrigerate?

First — who wants to put cold sauce on a hot dish! The main reason why hot sauce does not need to be refrigerated is that it contains high levels of vinegar, salt, and capsaicin, which are all natural preservatives. These ingredients work together to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms that can spoil food. As a result, hot sauce can remain fresh for an extended period without refrigeration.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule: If the hot sauce contains fresh fruits or vegetables, it should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth. So your mango, peach, tomato sauces do need to kept in the fridge! Also, if the hot sauce is homemade and does not contain any preservatives, it should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.

Why refrigerate

Exposure to heat and light can affect the quality of hot sauce. It is best to store hot sauce in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Heat and light can cause the hot sauce to lose its flavor and color, and it can also cause the vinegar to break down, which can affect its preservation properties. The USDA’s FoodKeeper App states that an open bottle of hot sauce can be kept for up to six months, but longer if stored in the fridge.

Another factor that can affect the shelf life of hot sauce is the type of container it is stored in. Hot sauce should be stored in a glass or plastic bottle with a tight-fitting lid to prevent air and moisture from entering the bottle. This will help to maintain the quality and flavor of the hot sauce for an extended period.

The Bottom Shelf — Line

Make sure to check the bottle and don’t just assume. Check how the maker suggests storing. Just because the hot sauce has changed color does not mean it has gone bad — but if you mold, toss it!