Balsamic Vinegar question

[Mahnahmahnah]

Do you have to refrigerate opened Balsamic Vinegar? It doesn't say on the bottle. I've always wondered this, and got mixed reviews from some FM's. One that was in my cabinet smells a little funny. The last time I used it was last month. I ended up opening a new one and chucking that smelly one. I don't want to risk getting sick off of bad vinegar, KWIM? How long does it last opened, BTW?

Thanks!

 

[geffric]

i refrigerator it..

 

[My2Cinderellas]

I don't refrigerate mine, it's lasted 2-3 years this way no problem.

 

[RickinNYC]

I've never refrigerated balsamic vinegar. Vinaigrette, yes. Vinegar, no.

 

[SharpMomOfTwo]

I don't, no. Nor do I refridgerate my EVOO

 

[DawnCt1]

uestion:

http://whatscookingamerica.net/balsamic.htm

Thank you for the information on balsamic vinegar. It was very helpful. Can you tell me if balsamic vinegar has a shelf live. Thank you. - Sandy Marzin (1/18/06)


Answer:

Under proper storage conditions, that is, away from direct heat and light, the shelf life is 3 years. Most producers of balsamic vinegar say 2 to 3 years. I, personally, have a bottle of the wonderful aged balsamic vinegar that I have had for 10 years, and it still is great.

The shelf life of balsamic vinegar is almost indefinite. Because of its acid nature, vinegar is self-preserving and does not need refrigeration.

 

[Mahnahmahnah]

Thanks for the replies.

Wow - 10 years Dawn!

I guess I shouldn't of chucked the opened one. I don't why it smelled funny to me.

 

[MM27]

we keep ours in the cabinet. We use it fast, so no worry about it going bad.