Shelf Stable Foods
How long does applesauce last after opening?
A sealed jar of applesauce holds 12–18 months in the pantry; once it’s opened it moves to the fridge and you have 7–10 days.
How long does it keep?
| Pantry, from purchase | 12–18 months |
|---|---|
| Pantry, opened | Not recommended |
| Fridge, opened | 7–10 days |
Can it sit out?
Unopened, applesauce is shelf-stable. Once opened, treat it as perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.
Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).
How to tell if applesauce has gone bad
- Fizzing, or a boozy fermented smell when the lid lifts
- Mold anywhere on the surface or under the lid
- A lid that has domed up since you last opened it
When in doubt, throw it out.
If applesauce is mostly a baking ingredient in your kitchen, buy the single-serve cups — a big jar rarely gets finished in time.
Quick answers
How long does applesauce last after opening?
A sealed jar of applesauce holds 12–18 months in the pantry; once it’s opened it moves to the fridge and you have 7–10 days.
How long can applesauce sit out?
Sitting out isn’t the safety question for unopened applesauce — once opened, the FSIS 2-hour rule applies. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).