FOOD NEWS
How Long Miso Lasts In The Fridge (And Why It Stays So Fresh)
By Andra Picincu
Centuries ago, miso was considered a luxury food reserved for the wealthy and served as a side dish or used as medicine. The fermented, soybean-based food can last years when stored properly, but its shelf life depends on several factors, leaving many to wonder how long it can actually last and how to keep it fresh.
Miso paste has just a few ingredients, including salt, which acts as a preservative to keep the food from spoiling. Bon Appétit claims that miso can be kept in the fridge indefinitely, but its color and texture may change over time; alternatively, you can keep it in the freezer to maintain its appearance and flavor.
However, its shelf-life ultimately depends on the ingredients used, especially the amount of sodium. For example, white rice miso and low-sodium varieties will last approximately six months, whereas homemade rice miso can be stored for a year or longer, per Chef JA Cooks. Soybean miso and barley miso last more or less, depending on their composition.
Miso should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, freezer, or any cool dark place, and you can cover it in plastic wrap to prevent any oxidation that will affect the color over time. Also, note that miso continues to ferment while in the fridge, which may change its flavor, and if that happens, add the paste to salad dressings, pickled tofu, stir-fried dishes, or mayo to mask its sourness.