Unopened vegan mayo lasts 6 to 12 months, and once opened, it’s good for 2 to 3 months in the fridge. Homemade vegan mayo, lacking preservatives, stays fresh for 7 to 10 days. Keep these timeframes in mind for optimal use.
Vegan mayo, short for vegan mayonnaise, is a plant-based alternative to traditional mayonnaise. It is made to emulate the taste and texture of real mayo but without any animal-derived ingredients like eggs.
In this article, we’ll learn how long vegan mayo lasts and many other questions related to vegan mayo expiration.
How Long Does Vegan Mayo Last?
Vegan mayo, whether opened or unopened, has varying shelf lives depending on factors like ingredients, manufacturing, and storage conditions.
Unopened vegan mayo can typically last anywhere from 6 to 12 months when stored in a cool, dry place. However, it’s essential to check the “best by” or “use by” date on the packaging for specific guidance.
Once opened, vegan mayo usually remains good for about 2 to 3 months when stored in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep it tightly sealed to prevent moisture and contaminants from affecting its quality.
Homemade vegan mayo, on the other hand, has a much shorter shelf life, usually ranging from 7 to 10 days. Since homemade versions lack preservatives, they are more susceptible to spoilage.
Remember that the shelf life of vegan mayo can vary between brands and homemade recipes, so it’s crucial to follow storage guidelines and look for any signs of spoilage, which we’ll discuss in the sections below.
How to Tell if Vegan Mayo Has Gone Bad
To determine if vegan mayo has gone bad, you can rely on your senses and a visual inspection. Here are some signs that tell you whether your vegan mayo is bad:
- Smell: Fresh vegan mayo should have a light, tangy scent. If it starts to emit a sour or rancid odor, it’s a clear sign that it has spoiled, and you should discard it.
- Visual Inspection: Examine the container for any signs of mold growth or unusual colors. If you notice any mold spots or if the mayo has developed an off-color, it’s best not to use it.
- Texture: Vegan mayo should have a smooth, creamy texture. If you open the container and find that the texture is lumpy or if there’s a noticeable separation of liquids and solids, it’s an indication that the mayo has likely gone bad.
You can tell if vegan mayonnaise is bad by checking for an off smell, like a rancid or sour odor; mold or discoloration, such as dark spots or unusual colorings; and an altered texture, like excessive thickness or separation. Be sure to check the expiration date on the packaging.
How Long is Vegan Mayo Good After Opening?
Once opened, vegan mayo typically remains good for about 3 months when stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s essential to follow any specific instructions or expiration dates provided on the packaging for the most accurate guidance on its freshness.
Can You Use Expired Vegan Mayo?
It’s not recommended to use expired vegan mayo. Always check the expiration date on the packaging, and if the mayo has passed this date, it should be discarded to ensure food safety and quality.
What Will Happen if You Eat Spoilt Vegan Mayo?
Consuming spoiled vegan mayo can lead to potential health risks. The high acidity and oil content of mayonnaise create an environment where harmful bacteria can thrive. Eating spoiled vegan mayo may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to food poisoning.
If you accidentally eat spoiled mayo and experience these symptoms, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest. If your condition doesn’t improve within a few days or worsens, it’s advisable to seek medical attention from a doctor.
Vegan Mayo FAQs
How long does Vegenaise last in the fridge?
Vegenaise, when refrigerated consistently at temperatures between 36-41°F (2-5°C), typically remains good for up to nine months from its date of manufacture.
It is advisable to avoid freezing Vegenaise since exposure to freezing temperatures can cause its emulsion to break, leading to changes in texture and quality.
Can I eat expired Veganaise?
It’s not advisable to eat expired Vegenaise. The “Use By” date printed on the side of the jar serves as a guideline, whether opened or unopened. Eating Vegenaise past this date can pose potential risks to your health.
Does vegan mayo spoil faster than regular mayo?
No, both vegan mayo and regular mayo tend to have the same shelf life when stored properly. Factors that determine how long mayo lasts are the ingredients, preservatives, and storage conditions.
However, homemade vegan mayo, which often does not contain preservatives, will not last longer than store-bought varieties or regular mayo.
Conclusion
At this point, you now know how long vegan mayo lasts, whether opened, unopened, or homemade.
In summary, vegan mayonnaise is a plant-based alternative to traditional mayonnaise, which contains products derived from animals.
Once opened, vegan mayo lasts for 2 to 3 months in the fridge, while unopened vegan mayo lasts from 6 to 12 months, depending on the expiration date on the packaging.
Homemade vegan mayo has a shorter shelf life of up to 7 to 10 days since it lacks preservatives.