The million-dollar question: Do you have to refrigerate mayonnaise? There’s a lot of confusion in regards to whether it should be put on the fridge or not.
The confusion is rife over whether mayonnaise should be kept refrigerated or in a cupboard – and it’s easy to see why many of us are unsure of the correct method. Mayonnaise, in the supermarket, is stored on a shelf along with a range of other condiments.
This might lead you to believe that refrigeration isn’t necessary. However, once the lid is opened, it’s preservation goes completely different. Latest reports have revealed that 71% of the UK population agrees that mayonnaise should be kept inside the fridge, while 29% doesn’t see the need for it to be in there.
And the correct method isn’t all that clear, especially when different mayonnaise bottles have a different set of storage requirements. Some say that refrigeration isn’t necessary, but others do recommend it to maintain quality, taste, and freshness, especially when the product is used multiple times. The ingredients in mayonnaise, such as eggs and oil, are prone to spoiling, making proper storage important. Generally, before opening, mayonnaise can be kept at room temperature without issue. However, once the lid is opened, it should be stored in the fridge and consumed within two months for the best quality and safety. But what does popular Hellmann’s brand say?
What do experts say?
According to reports, most Hellmann’s mayonnaise products include instructions to refrigerate after opening. However, an exception is made for their squeeze bottles, which are designed to minimise exposure to air and contaminants. The reason for refrigeration is simple: once opened, mayonnaise becomes vulnerable to bacterial growth, and colder temperatures help slow down this process, keeping it fresher for longer.
In Hellmann’s mayonnaise case, the label advises: “After opening, keep refrigerated and use within three months.”
What happens if mayonnaise isn’t refrigerated?
If a brand specifies that refrigeration is not required after opening, it’s safe to follow that guidance. However, if refrigeration is recommended and not followed, there’s a risk of the product spoiling. In the case of Hellmann’s mayonnaise, failing to store it properly can lead to foodborne illnesses, including food poisoning – and no ones likes to be sick.
Commercially produced mayonnaise contains preservatives and acidic vinegar, which help extend its shelf life. However, these ingredients do not make it immune to going off. Over time, the combination of eggs, oil, and other ingredients can degrade, making the product unsafe for consumption if left at room temperature for a longer time than supposed to.
To ensure your mayonnaise remains fresh and safe to eat, always check the label for storage instructions. If in doubt, it’s better to be on the side of caution and refrigerate after opening.
