Yes! Capers in vinegar do expire, but it has an exceptionally long shelf life when stored properly. An unopened jar of capers in vinegar can last 1 to 2 years past its best-before date if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, capers remain safe to eat for up to 12 to 18 months in the refrigerator, provided they stay submerged in vinegar. However, factors like exposure to air, contamination, and improper storage can shorten their lifespan.
What Are Capers and What Are They Used For?
Capers are the unopened flower buds of the Capparis spinosa plant, commonly found in the Mediterranean. They are typically pickled in vinegar or preserved in salt to enhance their flavor and longevity. Known for their briny, tangy, and slightly floral taste, capers add depth to many dishes. They are widely used in Mediterranean, Italian, and French cuisine, appearing in recipes like chicken piccata, pasta puttanesca, salads, sauces, and seafood dishes. Their bold flavor makes them a favorite ingredient for adding acidity and complexity to savory dishes.
How to Check if Caper in Vinegar Has Expired
Even though capers in vinegar last a long time, they can still spoil. Signs of expiration include:
- 🤢 Foul or off-putting smell – Fresh capers in vinegar should smell briny and tangy. A sour or rotten odor indicates spoilage.
- 🦠 Mold or slimy texture – Any mold growth or a slimy appearance means the capers are no longer safe to eat.
- 💨 Gas buildup or bubbling – If the liquid fizzes when you open the jar, it may be fermenting due to bacterial growth.
- 🎨 Change in color – Fresh capers should be greenish or olive-colored. If they turn brown or black, they may have deteriorated.
Do Unopened Capers in Vinegar Go Bad?
Unopened capers in vinegar have an extended shelf life because vinegar acts as a natural preservative. As long as the jar remains sealed and stored at room temperature (below 75°F or 24°C), it should last several years. However, if the jar is dented, leaking, or bulging, bacteria may have entered, making it unsafe to eat.
How Long Do Opened Capers in Vinegar Last?
Once opened, capers should be kept refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C). When stored properly and always kept submerged in vinegar, they can last 12 to 18 months. If capers are exposed to air frequently or stored at fluctuating temperatures, their quality may decline sooner.
Why Does Vinegar Help Preserve Capers?
Vinegar prevents spoilage because it creates an acidic environment (pH below 4.5), which inhibits bacterial growth. This makes it harder for mold and harmful bacteria to thrive. However, over time, the acidity level can drop, especially if water or food particles contaminate the jar, reducing its preserving power.
Can You Eat Capers in Vinegar Past the Expiration Date?
The printed expiration or best-before date is more of a quality guideline than a strict safety rule. If the capers smell normal, have no mold, and taste fine, they are likely still safe to eat. However, if they are several years past the expiration date, their flavor and texture may decline, making them less enjoyable.
How to Store Capers in Vinegar for Maximum Freshness
To keep capers fresh for as long as possible:
- Refrigerate after opening – Always store them at 40°F (4°C) or lower.
- Keep capers submerged in vinegar – If the liquid level drops, add a small amount of white vinegar to maintain acidity.
- Use a clean spoon – Avoid contamination by never using dirty utensils.
- Tightly seal the jar – Prevent air from entering, which can cause spoilage.
Can You Freeze Capers in Vinegar?
Freezing capers is not recommended because the vinegar may lose its potency, and the capers’ texture may become mushy. Instead, store them in the refrigerator for long-term use. If you need to store capers for an extended time, consider transferring them to a vacuum-sealed container with fresh vinegar.
What Happens if You Eat Expired Capers?
Eating expired capers in vinegar is usually not dangerous unless they show signs of spoilage. However, consuming moldy or fermented capers can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, or food poisoning. If in doubt, discard them.
Do Different Types of Capers Have Different Shelf Lives?
Capers preserved in salt tend to last even longer than capers in vinegar because salt absorbs moisture, preventing bacterial growth. However, they require rinsing before use, while vinegar-preserved capers are ready to eat straight from the jar.
Bottom Line: How Long Can You Safely Keep Capers in Vinegar?
Capers in vinegar are one of the longest-lasting condiments if stored correctly. Unopened, they can last years beyond their expiration date if kept in a cool, dark place. Opened jars, when refrigerated and properly sealed, stay fresh for 12 to 18 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before use, and when in doubt, throw them out