How long does Kimchi (Opened Jar) last?
How long does Kimchi (Opened Jar) last? fridge 3–6 months. Plus spoilage signs, sources, and an unopened-vs-opened note.
Quick answer
Sealed / unopened: Check date
Signs Kimchi (Opened Jar) has gone bad
- Fuzzy blue/green/black mold (not the normal white film).
- Mushy, slimy texture.
- Putrid or off smell beyond normal sourness.
Still good if
- A thin white film on top is usually harmless Kahm yeast — skim it off.
- Growing sourness and fizz over time is normal active fermentation.
Discard immediately if
- Any mold growth
- Container is bulging or hisses when opened
- Sharp sour smell beyond expected acidity
Why guidance varies
Kimchi keeps fermenting in the fridge; it grows more sour over time but stays safe as long as it's submerged and mold-free.
Get a heads-up before it expires. Search the full database instead.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Kimchi (Opened Jar) last?
In the fridge: 3–6 months. Sealed / unopened: Check date. Keep cabbage submerged under the brine and seal tightly. A white film on top is usually harmless Kahm yeast — fuzzy colored mold is not.
How can you tell if Kimchi (Opened Jar) has gone bad?
Signs that Kimchi (Opened Jar) has gone bad: Fuzzy blue/green/black mold (not the normal white film); Mushy, slimy texture; Putrid or off smell beyond normal sourness. Still good if: A thin white film on top is usually harmless Kahm yeast — skim it off; Growing sourness and fizz over time is normal active fermentation.
What does the date label on Kimchi (Opened Jar) mean?
Kimchi (Opened Jar) usually carries a "Best By" date. A quality marker — the product is at peak quality before this date, but it’s safe to eat afterward if stored correctly. See our date-labels guide for the full breakdown.
Sources for this answer
- A USDA FoodKeeper — Storage windows and refrigeration guidance for this category.
- A FDA — Are You Storing Food Safely? — Date-label interpretation and food-safety baseline.