Once opened, Balsamic vinegar keeps about 18 months in the fridge. Unopened, it keeps about 3–5 years.
18 months opened in the fridge, against 3–5 years sealed in the pantry. Green is what this situation leaves you; husk is what it spends.
| Situation | Keeps for |
|---|---|
| Unopened · pantry | 3–5 years |
| Opened · fridge | 18 months |
Air and warmth are what shorten an opened item's life — the right container buys back the days the packaging gives up once the seal's broken.
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About 18 months refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper v128. Refrigerate it once it's open.
Yes — keep Balsamic vinegar at 40°F (4°C) or below once it's open. Cool, dry pantry unopened; refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below after opening.
Look for: Mould around the rim, cap, or surface; An off, fermented, or yeasty smell; Fizzing, bubbling, or a bulging lid; Separation or a colour change that won't stir back in. Those are the general signs for condiments & sauces — USDA FoodKeeper v128 publishes no spoilage note for Balsamic vinegar specifically. Never taste something to test it — when in doubt, throw it out.