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How Long Does Tomato Sauce (Opened Jar) Last?

Opened jar or can of tomato sauce, marinara, or pasta sauce.

The Short Answer

Tomato Sauce (Opened Jar) lasts 5–10 days when stored properly in the fridge. Transfer from the can to a glass or plastic container if opened from a can. Glass jar sauce can stay in the original jar

Storage Times for Tomato Sauce (Opened Jar)

🧊 Fridge
5–10 days
40°F (4°C) or below
❄️ Freezer
3–4 months
0°F (-18°C) or below

Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 30, 2026 | Our methodology

How to Store Tomato Sauce (Opened Jar)

Transfer from the can to a glass or plastic container if opened from a can. Glass jar sauce can stay in the original jar. Keep the lid tightly sealed. The acidity of tomatoes helps preservation.

How to Tell if Tomato Sauce (Opened Jar) Has Gone Bad

Mold on the surface, sour or fermented smell, bubbling or fizzing, unusual darkening, off taste.

The Professor
The Professor says:

The acidity of tomato sauce makes it one of the longer-lasting opened condiments in your fridge. But once you see any mold, even a small spot, discard the entire jar. Do not scoop it off and keep using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most opened jarred pasta sauces last 5-10 days in the refrigerator. The high acidity of tomatoes helps preserve the sauce longer than many other opened foods.

Yes. Freeze in portions in freezer bags or containers for 3-4 months. Leave headspace for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.

No. Mold on tomato sauce can produce mycotoxins that spread through the liquid even if you cannot see them. Discard the entire container if mold is visible anywhere.

The Bottom Line

Tomato Sauce (Opened Jar) keeps for 5–10 days when stored properly. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating, and remember that these times are guidelines, not guarantees. When in doubt, discard it.