Manufacturers list different expiration dates on jarred duck sauce, based on how long they think the condiment will stay in peak condition. One major brand keeps for at least 540 days, or about a year and a half, if the seal is intact. You don’t need to refrigerate duck sauce that’s still in its sealed jar, but you might see a decrease in quality if you use it after the expiration date.

After opening, duck sauce needs to go in the refrigerator. Its high sugar and moisture content make it an ideal environment for mold. In cold conditions, however, this sauce keeps a long time. Most brands will stay fresh for up to a year in the fridge. They’re usually safe to eat even after this amount of time, but they might change color or develop off-flavors. If you think your duck sauce might be too old, discard it and buy a fresh jar.

Anyone who has ever ordered restaurant Chinese food is familiar with the plastic packets of soy and duck sauce that most establishments add to the order. These hermetically sealed packets have been designed to keep mold out, but they often go bad faster than jarred condiments. Heinz rates its packets of duck sauce for about six months. On the My Fox Memphi website, clinical dietician Christy Fernandez suggests refrigerating leftover packets to increase their storage life.

If you prefer to avoid the corn syrup and artificial colors common in commercial duck sauces, try making your own. Homemade sauces use fresh fruit and other wholesome ingredients for a stronger flavor and more balanced taste. They don’t keep quite as long, however. Serious Eats recommends storing homemade duck sauce in the refrigerator for no longer than three weeks.