This preserves your pickles for long-term storage.

David Tineris chef instructor and director ofLouisiana Culinary Institute in Baton Rouge.

Do Pickles Go Bad?

jars of pickles

Credit:Photography and Styling: Caitlin Bensel

The short answer according to Tiner is yes, pickles do go bad.

“Most people may think that pickles last forever, but not really,” he explains.

“Pickles will eventually spoil if given enough time.

“Before the pickle actually spoils, the flavor will start to change,” he says.

“A pickle’s flavor will be less fresh tasting, or not as potent.

I’ve had pickles that reminded me of the smell of an old house.

Was the pickle bad?

I don’t know, but I know it was not worth eating.”

So if pickles do go bad eventually, why don’t we hear about it that often?

Tinnier says the reason is pretty simple.

“Most pickles have been consumed long before they have time to go bad,” he says.

How Long Will Pickles Last?

However, pickles generally have the best flavor and texture if eaten within a year of canning.

Storing pickles correctly is an important factor in keeping them fresh.

Unopened jars should be kept in a cool, dark place likeyour pantryor basement.

So long as the seal is intact, pickles are safe in the pantry or other temperature-stable locations.