Applesauce is a beloved food item, used as a snack, a side dish, or an ingredient in recipes. Whether you have homemade applesauce or store-bought varieties, knowing how long it lasts in the fridge is important for keeping it safe to eat. Generally, the shelf life of applesauce depends on several factors, including whether it is homemade or store-bought.

Store-bought applesauce typically lasts longer in the fridge compared to homemade applesauce, thanks to the preservatives and the sealed packaging. Once opened, you can expect store-bought applesauce to remain fresh in the fridge for about 7 to 10 days. For the best quality, it's important to always keep it sealed in an airtight container and to avoid any contamination from dirty utensils.

Homemade applesauce doesn't have the preservatives that store-bought versions do, which means it has a shorter shelf life. Typically, homemade applesauce will last about 5 to 7 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. While it can still be safe to eat a little beyond this time, it may lose its freshness in taste and texture.

Factors Affecting Applesauce Shelf Life

Several factors determine how long applesauce will stay fresh in the fridge. These factors include storage conditions, the packaging of the applesauce, and the presence or absence of preservatives.

• Storage Conditions: The temperature at which applesauce is stored plays a huge role in its shelf life. The fridge should be set between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C), which slows bacterial growth. Keeping applesauce in a cool, dry, and dark place away from direct sunlight is essential for maintaining its freshness.
• Packaging: The packaging of the applesauce also affects its lifespan. Applesauce in sealed jars or tightly closed plastic containers lasts longer than applesauce stored in an open container. Once the container is opened, oxygen can cause oxidation and lead to faster spoilage. For homemade applesauce, always store it in airtight containers to avoid air exposure.
• Preservatives: Many commercial applesauce brands contain preservatives such as citric acid, which help maintain freshness for a longer time. These preservatives inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. Homemade applesauce, on the other hand, lacks these preservatives and is more susceptible to spoilage. Without preservatives, homemade applesauce may not last as long, and refrigeration is crucial.
• Contamination: Applesauce can spoil faster if it’s handled with dirty utensils or comes into contact with other foods that may be contaminated. Always use clean spoons or ladles when serving applesauce and avoid putting your fingers directly in the jar to prevent contamination.

Signs That Applesauce Has Gone Bad

To ensure that you are consuming fresh applesauce, it is important to check for signs of spoilage. The following are indicators that applesauce has gone bad and should be discarded:

• Mold: The most obvious sign that applesauce has spoiled is the growth of mold. If you notice any fuzzy, greenish, or white growth on the surface of the applesauce, it should be discarded immediately. Mold indicates that bacteria have started to grow, and the applesauce is no longer safe to eat.
• Off Smell: Applesauce has a naturally sweet and mild apple fragrance. If the applesauce develops a sour, fermented, or unpleasant odor, it is a clear indication of spoilage. The sour smell is caused by the growth of bacteria and yeast, which can make the applesauce unsafe to consume.
• Color Change: Applesauce is usually a pale yellow or light brown color. If it turns darker or develops an odd discoloration, it may be starting to spoil. A change in color often indicates that the applesauce is beginning to lose its freshness, though it may not always be harmful. However, if it is accompanied by other signs like off smells or mold, it is best to throw it out.
• Off Taste: If the applesauce tastes sour, bitter, or unusually tangy, it is a sign that it has spoiled. The taste is the result of bacterial growth or fermentation. Even if the applesauce doesn't have visible mold or a bad smell, an off taste means it should not be consumed.

How to Properly Store Applesauce in the Fridge

To extend the shelf life of your applesauce, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to help keep it fresh for as long as possible:

• Use Airtight Containers: Whether you are storing homemade or store-bought applesauce, always transfer it to an airtight container once it is opened. This helps prevent air exposure, which can cause oxidation and spoilage. Glass containers or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best. For homemade applesauce, make sure the container is completely sealed to prevent contaminants from getting inside.
• Keep the Fridge at the Right Temperature: Ensure your fridge is operating at the right temperature, typically between 34°F and 40°F (1°C and 4°C). This temperature range helps slow down bacterial growth, keeping the applesauce fresh for a longer period. Check your fridge's temperature settings regularly to ensure it is cold enough.
• Store Applesauce in a Stable Environment: Try to store applesauce on a shelf in the fridge that maintains a consistent temperature. Avoid placing it in areas where the temperature fluctuates, such as the door. The door's frequent opening and closing cause temperature shifts that can promote the growth of bacteria.
• Label and Date the Container: When you open a jar of store-bought applesauce or make homemade applesauce, consider labeling the container with the date it was opened or made. This will help you track how long it has been in the fridge and ensure that you consume it while it is still safe and fresh.
• Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Keep applesauce away from the fridge door, as the temperature tends to fluctuate more there due to the door being opened and closed. Store applesauce on a middle or back shelf to maintain a consistent temperature.

Does Homemade Applesauce Last as Long as Store-Bought?

Homemade applesauce typically does not last as long as store-bought applesauce due to the absence of preservatives. While store-bought applesauce can last 7 to 10 days in the fridge after opening, homemade applesauce tends to last for about 5 to 7 days. This is because homemade applesauce lacks the artificial preservatives that are often added to commercial products to extend shelf life.

However, homemade applesauce can be frozen to prolong its shelf life. Freezing homemade applesauce allows it to stay good for up to 1 to 2 months. If you decide to freeze homemade applesauce, be sure to store it in an airtight container with enough space for it to expand as it freezes.

Can You Extend the Shelf Life of Applesauce?

There are several ways you can extend the shelf life of applesauce, especially if you want to keep it for longer periods. Here are some tips to help:

• Freezing: One of the best ways to extend the shelf life of applesauce is by freezing it. Freezing helps preserve the texture and flavor of applesauce for months. To freeze applesauce, place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Properly frozen applesauce can last for 1 to 2 months.
• Avoid Contamination: Bacteria can speed up the spoiling process, so it’s important to handle applesauce with clean utensils. Avoid touching the applesauce with your hands or using dirty spoons. If you use a spoon or ladle to scoop applesauce, make sure it is clean to prevent bacteria from entering the container.
• Seal the Container Tightly: After opening a jar of applesauce, always make sure the lid is tightly sealed. If you’re storing homemade applesauce, use an airtight container to prevent air from getting inside, which can lead to faster spoilage.
• Refrigeration Right After Use: After serving or using applesauce, refrigerate any leftover immediately. Don’t leave applesauce out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can grow rapidly at warmer temperatures.

What Happens If You Eat Expired Applesauce?

Eating expired applesauce can cause foodborne illnesses, as consuming spoiled food can lead to digestive upset. If you eat applesauce that has gone bad, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

These symptoms occur because spoiled applesauce can contain harmful bacteria or mold, which can cause digestive disturbances. If you suspect that you have eaten spoiled applesauce, it’s important to stay hydrated and rest. If symptoms persist or are severe, seek medical attention.