Does Tomato Paste Go Bad?: We have to admit the truth that tomato paste is not a one-time all dish. We all require one or two tablespoons of tomato paste. So, we need to take care of the rest by tossing it into the fridge until next time. We often throw it out thinking that it has gone bad. But, does tomato paste go bad that easily?
Find how long tomato paste can last, its expiry date, storage tips, the expiration date of canned tomatoes, and How to know if your tomato paste has gone bad? from this guide.
- What is Tomato Paste?
- Does Tomato Paste Go Bad?
- How Long Does Tomato Paste Last? – Tomato Paste Expiration Date and Shelf Life
- How to Store Tomato Paste?
- Can You Freeze Tomato Paste?
- How to Tell if Tomato Paste is Bad?
- Interesting Facts about Tomato Paste
- FAQs on Can Tomato Paste Go Bad?
What is Tomato Paste?
Tomato paste is made by cooking tomatoes into a thick paste after removing the seeds and skin. The paste will be acidic in nature and you don’t have to put much into your dishes. One or two spoons will be enough. There are basically three types or forms in which tomato paste is available. They are Cans, Glass jars, and Tubes.
Does Tomato Paste Go Bad? | Does Canned Tomato Paste Go Bad
Yes. The leftover tomato paste can definitely go bad if not stored properly. Unopened paste might last longer but without proper storage, there are higher chances for spoilage. Even in a fridge, you need to know how to store it properly. So read on and check out how long tomato paste lasts in the fridge and some storage practices to increase the shelf life.
Also Check: Can Salad Dressing Go Bad?
How Long Does Tomato Paste Last? – Tomato Paste Expiration Date and Shelf Life
Tomato paste can either be made at home or can be bought from the store. Either way, it is the proper storage that guarantees a long shelf life for tomato paste. Unopened tomato paste definitely will last up to months as given in the date. You can even use it past the date if not opened. But the quality might get reduced.
Look into the below table as we have explained how long does tomato paste in a tube last, how long is tomato paste good for in the fridge, canned tomato paste expiration date is, and much more clearly.
| Conditions | Pantry | Fridge |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato paste (unopened) | Best by + 6 months | |
| Canned tomato paste (opened) | 5 -7 days | |
| Tomato paste in a glass jar (opened) | 7 – 10 days | |
| Tomato paste in a tube | 45 days |
Do you know How Long Do Tomatoes Last? Just click on the link and find complete knowledge about it.
How to Store Tomato Paste?
You can use several methods to store your tomato paste. Whatever you used to store the tomato paste, always make sure that you store it in a cool and dry place. Tomato paste must not be kept near heat sources or sunlight. The best place to store your tomato paste is your pantry or kitchen cabinet. You can store them by sealing them with cling wrap or in a plastic bag with a rubber band.
Transferring the rest of the paste to an airtight container or a glass jar is also an ideal way to store your tomato paste. Note that every tomato paste has a “best by date” option. Do check that out before using it. Read on to find out some of the easy techniques for storing tomato paste.
Storing at Room Temperature
It is totally safe to store your tomato paste at room temperature. In an unopened can, away from sunlight, it can last up to 18 to 24 months, depending upon the quality of the paste you have bought.
Refrigerator
It is always better to keep your tomato paste in the fridge once the container is opened. It offers a longer life in a fridge than if it is kept outside at room temperature. Once used, cover it properly and tightly to put it back in the fridge.
Cans
Tomato paste in cans must be handled with extra care rather than keeping it in glass jars or tubes. A tightly sealed, canned tomato paste can last up to five to seven days in your refrigerator, even after opening.
Glass jars
Tomato paste kept in glass jars has only a small shelf life of two days maximum.
Tubes
Tomato paste bought in tubes has a longer shelf life as compared to the other two options. Tomato paste tubes, even after opening, can last up to 45 days. But remember that these are more expensive than others.
Ingredients:
Water, Sugar, Tomato Paste (28%), Iodized Salt, Acidity Regulator (INS 260), Stabilizers (INS 1422, INS 415), Spices and Condiments (Onion Powder, Garlic Powder and Mixed Spices) Preservative (INS 211), and Paprika Oleoresin (INS 160c (i)).
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
**Serving Size: 15 g (1 tablespoon)
No. of Servings Per Package: 66
| Nutrients | Per 100 g | %RDA* |
| Energy | 139.2 kcal | 1.04 |
| Protein | 1.2 g | |
| Carbohydrates | 32.9 g | |
| Total Sugars | 30.2 g | |
| Added Sugars | 24.1 g | 7.23 |
| Total Fat | 0.3 g | 0.07 |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | |
| Sodium | 1010 mg | 7.58 |
*For Recommended Dietary Allowance (Ref.: NIN & ICMR Norm)
*Recommended Dietary Allowance basis 2000 kcal Energy Diet
Can You Freeze Tomato Paste?
Yes, You can freeze tomato paste to prolong its shelf life. You can either directly freeze it or it can be changed into ice cubes. Remove the ice and fill the trays with tomato paste. Once it is frozen into cubes, put them together into a freezer bag in the freezer. You can even use a muffin tray. Tomato paste in its frozen state might last up to three months. But just like any other dish, defrosting the frozen paste can alter and reduce the quality of tomato paste.
How to Tell if Tomato Paste is Bad?
The typical texture of tomato paste is that it is moist. There are several signs that help you to determine whether your tomato paste has gone bad. Check out the below signs and see whether the paste has gone bad.
Mold Growth
Any sign of mold growth on your tomato paste is an indication that it has gone bad. Look carefully and ensure that your paste is devoid of any mold. Discoloration of tomato paste also indicates the presence of molds. Colors varying from greenish to yellowish must be avoided as it is a clear sign of mold.
Odor
Any foul or unpleasant odor from your tomato paste also means that it has gone bad. Sometimes it gives off a pungent or sour smell, indicating spoilage. Any off-odor is a sign that you might want to throw it away. Safety first!
Watery Consistency
If your tomato paste goes too watery, consider it a sign of spoilage. People often use their paste even after the texture becomes watery. But it is not an ideal way to use it. You might have to compromise on the quality and taste while choosing to have a watery paste.
Sticky Paste
If your tomato paste seems to be so sticky, it might have gone bad. Do taste or smell to confirm that it has gone bad.
Damage to the Container
If the container shows any damage, leakage, or rust, it is possible that the paste has gone bad. Avoid using spoiled paste by thoroughly checking the container.
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Interesting Facts about Tomato Paste
Check for the fun facts about tomato paste and gain extra information like history, health benefits, etc:
- Tomato paste is sometimes available in different flavors. It is because of the addition of spices and herbs to it for a better taste.
- Tomato paste is widely used in spaghetti sauces, pizzas, meatloaf, stews, and other dishes.
- Though tomato paste from stores offers you a long shelf life, homemade tomato paste is way better. Do make a try at home!
FAQs on Can Tomato Paste Go Bad?
1. Does tube tomato paste go bad?
Of course, it will. But tomato paste in tubes typically has a longer life span as compared to those available in jars and cans. Tomato paste in tubes will last up to 45 days in the refrigerator, even after opening.
2. Does tomato paste go bad if not refrigerated?
You can store your tomato paste at room temperature if it has not been opened. Make sure to keep it in a cool and dry place away from sunlight. It will last up to several months, depending on the quality.
3. Does tomato paste go bad after expiration date?
If the container is tightly sealed and unopened, it is safe to use it past the expiry date. However, the quality might not be that great.
Conclusion
We assume that you are now informed regarding does tomato paste go bad. Check thoroughly to make sure that your paste is safe enough to use. Also, do follow our instructions to extend the shelf life of tomato paste. Do look out for the above-mentioned signs of spoilage and be aware of the risk. For more information and updates regarding food-related queries, visit our website @CanFoodGoBad.com and comment below or contact us for any help.