What is the shelf life of applesauce (apple compote)? 

Applesauce has become a staple food item in many households across America. It is inexpensive, nutritious, and delicious. But how long does it last before it goes bad?

In this article, we will learn about the shelf life of applesauce. We will also share the most common way to store applesauce, as well as the best way to extend the shelf life of applesauce without sacrificing quality.

How long does apple compote last?

The shelf life of applesauce depends on several factors:

  • The type of apple used to make the sauce
  • The amount of sugar added to the applesauce
  • How the applesauce was stored before consumption
  • Whether the applesauce is homemade or store-bought
  • Whether or not the container has been opened.

Homemade apple compote 

Homemade applesauce
  • Refrigerator: 5 to 7 days
  • Freezer: 2 to 3 months (best quality)

How long does homemade applesauce last?

Refrigerate Homemade Applesauce within 2 hours of completing the recipe. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. 

For longer shelf life, freeze homemade applesauce in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, pushing as much air out of the container or freezer bag as possible. 

Applesauce sold unrefrigerated (unopened box) 

Store-bought applesauce
  • Room temperature: 12 to 18 months
  • Freezer: 1 to 2 months (best quality)

What is the shelf life of an unopened can of applesauce? 

 Applesauce is one of those foods that doesn’t spoil easily. However, it does lose its freshness over time. That said, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t keep it out at room temperature. 

An unopened can of applesauce sold unrefrigerated typically retains optimum flavor and texture for about 12 to 18 months at room temperature but is generally safe to eat after that time. 

As long as it’s not exposed to extreme heat or cold, it should be fine. To maximize the shelf life of applesauce, store the can in a cool, dark place. 

Is an unopened can of applesauce safe to eat after the “best before” date on the package? 

Yes, provided it is stored correctly and the packaging is undamaged. Cans of applesauce are usually marked with a “best before” date. However, this isn’t a “use by” date, but a manufacturer’s estimate of how long the applesauce will maintain optimum flavor.

After this day, the apple sauce may change its color or flavor, but in most cases, it is still safe to consume if stored properly, the package is intact and unharmed, and there are no signs of spoilage.

You can freeze applesauce in an airtight container so that it lasts longer. Leave at least two inches of space at the top because applesauce tends to expand when frozen.

How long does applesauce keep in the freezer? 

Stored in the right conditions, the applesauce retains optimum quality for about 1 to 2 months in the freezer but remains suitable for consumption beyond this period. 

How long will applesauce keep after being frozen and then thawed? 

Applesauce that has been thawed in the refrigerator can be stored for an additional 3-5 days in the refrigerator before consumption. Applesauce that has been thawed in the microwave or cold water should be consumed immediately.

How do you know if applesauce has expired? 

If the applesauce develops an abnormal smell, taste, or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded. Discard applesauce if packaging leaks, rusts, bulges or is heavily dented. 

Applesauce sold unrefrigerated (open box) 

Open applesauce
  • Refrigerator: 1 to 2 weeks
  • Freezer: 1 to 2 months (best quality)

What is the shelf life of applesauce after opening the can? 

The precise answer to this question depends to a large extent on the storage conditions. Store applesauce in the refrigerator after opening the can. 

How long will applesauce keep in the fridge after opening the can? 

Applesauce will keep for about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator after opening the can. 

To further prolong the shelf life of applesauce after opening, you can freeze it in an airtight container, leaving at least 2 centimeters of free space at the top, because applesauce expands in the cold. 

How long will applesauce keep in the freezer after opening the can? 

Stored in the right conditions, the applesauce retains optimum quality for approximately 1 to 2 months in the freezer after opening the box but remains suitable for consumption beyond this period. 

How long will applesauce keep after freezing and thawing? 

Applesauce that has been thawed in the refrigerator can be stored for an additional 3-5 days in the refrigerator before consumption. Applesauce that has been thawed in the microwave or cold water should be consumed immediately. 

How do you know if applesauce has expired? 

If the applesauce develops an abnormal smell, taste, or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded. Discard applesauce if packaging leaks, rusts, bulges or is heavily dented. 

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