How Hot Sauce Stays Safe: A Guide to Preservation Techniques

Wondering how long that bottle of hot sauce in your pantry will stay fresh? Hot sauce shelf life varies dramatically based on ingredients, storage conditions, and whether it's been opened. While vinegar-based sauces can last 2-5 years unopened, fresh ingredient varieties typically last 1-2 years. Once opened, refrigeration extends quality and safety significantly. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about hot sauce longevity, from understanding why acidity and salt content affect preservation to recognizing the warning signs of spoilage. Learn proper storage techniques, decode "best by" dates, and discover when it's safe to keep using that forgotten bottle versus when it's time to toss it and start fresh.