How Long Does Tomato Paste Last?
Tomato Paste lasts 5-7 days when stored in the refrigerator. Freezing extends storage to 6-8 months. Discard if you notice mold growth on surface or container or off or sour smell. Store properly to maximize freshness and safety.
Tomato Paste lasts 5-7 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. Check for signs of spoilage before consuming after this period.
Refrigerator
5-7 days
Pantry (Unopened)
1-2 years
Freezer
6-8 months
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Can I Still Use This Tomato Paste?
Quick decision guide based on how you stored it:
In the fridge
Safe for 5-7 days. Check for spoilage signs before use.
In the fridge (opened)
Use within 5-7 days. Cover to prevent contamination.
Left out at room temp
Pantry-stable for 1-2 years if sealed.
Left out at room temp (opened)
Opened and unrefrigerated — use immediately or discard after 2 hours.
In the freezer
Frozen quality maintained for 6-8 months. Safe indefinitely if kept at 0°F.
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Tomato Paste Shelf Life by Storage Method
| Storage Method | Duration | Safety Level |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry / Room Temp (Unopened) | 1-2 years | SAFE |
| Refrigerator | 5-7 days | CAUTION |
| Freezer | 6-8 months | SAFE |
About Tomato Paste
Tomato Paste shelf life information including storage tips and signs of spoilage.
Signs Tomato Paste Has Gone Bad
- Mold growth on surface or container
- Off or sour smell
- Change in color (darkening or unusual discoloration)
- Bubbling or foaming indicating fermentation
How to Store Tomato Paste Properly
- Store unopened cans or tubes in a cool, dry pantry away from heat and sunlight.
- After opening, transfer leftover tomato paste to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly.
- For longer storage, freeze tomato paste in small portions using ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
Safety Notes & Expiration Risks
Using expired tomato paste can lead to foodborne illness due to mold growth or bacterial contamination. Consuming spoiled tomato paste may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Always discard tomato paste if signs of spoilage are present.
Common Questions About Tomato Paste Safety
Is tomato paste still safe after being left out overnight?
Tomato Paste that is shelf-stable and was sealed can generally be left out overnight without safety concerns. However, if it was opened or is a perishable variety, the USDA 2-hour rule applies — discard any perishable food left in the "danger zone" (40–140°F) for more than 2 hours.
Can you eat tomato paste that smells fine but is past its expiration date?
"Best by" and "sell by" dates on tomato paste typically indicate peak quality, not a hard safety cutoff. If tomato paste smells normal, shows no visible mold or discoloration, and has been stored properly, it is often safe shortly past the printed date. However, use your judgment and when in doubt, discard it.
Is freezer-burned tomato paste safe to eat?
Freezer burn on tomato paste is caused by air reaching the food's surface and causes dry, discolored patches. Freezer-burned tomato paste is safe to eat — it is a quality issue, not a safety issue. The affected areas may have an off flavor or dry texture. You can trim away freezer-burned portions before cooking. To prevent freezer burn, use airtight packaging and remove as much air as possible before freezing.
What does it mean if tomato paste has changed color or texture?
Minor color changes in tomato paste may be natural and do not always indicate spoilage. However, significant discoloration, mold growth, unusual sliminess, or a major texture change typically means the product has degraded. If the change is accompanied by an off smell, discard the product. When only the color has shifted slightly and everything else seems normal, the product may still be usable but is past peak quality.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Tomato Paste last?
Unopened tomato paste lasts 1-2 years in the pantry; once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 5-7 days.
Does Tomato Paste expire?
Yes, tomato paste can expire. Unopened cans or tubes have a long shelf life, but once opened, it should be used quickly to avoid spoilage.
How can you tell if Tomato Paste has gone bad?
Signs of spoilage include mold growth, off or sour smell, discoloration, and bubbling or foaming indicating fermentation.