How long will cooked tomato sauce last?

The shelf life of cooked tomato sauce depends on several factors, including the storage temperature, the acidity level of the sauce, and the presence or absence of preservatives. Here's a general guideline:

Refrigeration:

- Homemade cooked tomato sauce: 3-5 days

- Commercially prepared cooked tomato sauce (unopened): Up to 2 weeks beyond the "best before" date

- Commercially prepared cooked tomato sauce (opened): 3-5 days

Freezing:

- Homemade cooked tomato sauce: Up to 6 months

- Commercially prepared cooked tomato sauce (unopened): Up to 12 months beyond the "best before" date

- Commercially prepared cooked tomato sauce (opened): 3-6 months

Tips for延长 the shelf life of cooked tomato sauce:

- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes.

- Cook the sauce until it reaches a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

- Add an acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to increase the acidity level of the sauce. This helps prevent spoilage.

- Use canning techniques, such as water bath canning or pressure canning, to preserve the sauce for long-term storage.

- Store the cooked tomato sauce in clean, airtight containers. This helps prevent contamination from bacteria and other microorganisms.

It's always a good idea to check the appearance, smell, and taste of the sauce before consuming it to ensure its quality and safety.