Condiments, Sauces & Canned Goods

How long does relish last in the fridge?

30 months
Pantry, from purchase — USDA FoodKeeper guidance for relish

Relish holds 9 months in the fridge and 30 months sealed in the pantry — once the jar is open, the fridge is the only shelf for it.

How long does it keep?

Pantry, from purchase 30 months
Fridge, from purchase 9 months

Can it sit out?

Unopened, relish 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).

The 2-hour rule, in full →

How to tell if relish has gone bad

  • A watery layer that separates out and won’t stir back in
  • Bright green faded to a dull army drab
  • Mold on the rim or clinging under the lid

When in doubt, throw it out.

Wipe the jar rim before you close it — sugary relish left on the threads is exactly where the first mold shows up.

Quick answers

How long does relish last in the fridge?

Relish holds 9 months in the fridge and 30 months sealed in the pantry — once the jar is open, the fridge is the only shelf for it.

How long can relish sit out?

Sitting out isn’t the safety question for unopened relish — 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).