The Best Way To Store Mayonnaise, According to Duke’s

In the South, mayonnaise isn’t so much a condiment as a way of life. It binds the “salads” that grace our potlucks and picnics, provides the delicious glue for our tomato sandwiches, and brings creaminess to the dips and casseroles we so love.

Since it’s such an important part of the Southern pantry, I wanted to know the best way to store mayonnaise, according to the experts, so I reached out to my friends at Duke’s (whose headquarters are where I live, in Richmond, Virginia) to find out exactly what they recommend.

What Is the Best Way To Store Mayonnaise?

At the grocery store, mayonnaise is sold in the condiment aisle, sans refrigeration, but as soon as we open a jar, it should go into the fridge. Then there are the packets of mayonnaise that come with to-go food that never seem to be refrigerated. So, where should mayonnaise be stored?

“Duke’s Mayonnaise is a shelf-stable product, so it’s perfectly fine to store it unopened in a cool, dry pantry or cabinet,” says Jason Chesney, Director of Quality and Food Safety at Duke’s via email, adding that heat exposure can hasten unwanted flavor and color changes. “Once opened, it’s best to keep it refrigerated with the lid tightly secured.” Chesney notes that properly storing mayonnaise slows the oxidation process, which helps the mayonnaise maintain its best flavor.

Chesney also has tips for where to store mayo inside the fridge, saying, “Steer clear of the back—it’s often the coldest spot and can lead to inconsistent texture over time. Besides, we all know Duke’s deserves a front-and-center spot anyway.” As for those mayonnaise packets, they are designed to be shelf stable and do not need to be refrigerated, but they should be stored in a cool, dry location (like your purse, for mayo-related emergencies).

Can Mayonnaise Be Frozen?

If you see a great deal on mayonnaise, it might be tempting to try to stock up and freeze it, but Chesney says, “We don’t recommend freezing mayo. It can cause the ingredients to separate.” That’s because, when mayonnaise freezes, the water content freezes and expands, which can break down the emulsion. So, feel free to stock up, but make space for the mayo in your pantry, not your freezer.

How Long Does Mayonnaise Last

Between batches of pimiento cheese and near-daily turkey sandwiches, mayonnaise never lasts long in my house. I’ve honestly never had to consult the use-by date. But as a general rule, mayonnaise will last for two to three months, after opening, in the refrigerator and should be used by the use-by date printed on the jar. Signs of spoilage include off smells, discoloration, and an oily appearance. If you see any of those signs, toss the jar and start fresh.