Fermented fish sauce, or “mam,” is a beloved condiment in Vietnamese cuisine, with various types and preparation methods. Many may be unaware of the proper storage and shelf life of these sauces. Read on to learn more!
1. Shelf Life of Fermented Shrimp, Anchovy, and Crab Sauces
Fermented Shrimp Sauce
Shelf life: 6 – 12 months. Once opened, the shelf life reduces to 15 – 20 days as exposure to air can cause spoilage.
Fermented shrimp sauce can be stored for 15-20 minutes once opened
Anchovy Sauce
Homemade anchovy sauce has a shelf life of 4-5 days.
For store-bought anchovy sauce in sealed jars, the shelf life before opening is 3-6 months.
Anchovy sauce with meat
Crab Sauce
Shelf life: 12 months due to its preparation method, which involves fermentation, aging, and storage in earthenware jars for 6-9 months.
Once opened, use a clean spoon, and it will last 5-7 days at room temperature and 1 month if refrigerated.
Related: for a homemade recipe.
Crab sauce can be stored for 5-7 days at room temperature
2. How to Store Fermented Shrimp Sauce
For Manufacturers
Wrap the containers or jars with multiple layers of plastic and secure the lids tightly during the fermentation and packaging process.
Store in a dry, well-ventilated area with sunlight. Regularly inspect the sauce with clean wooden or bamboo sticks every 7-10 days.
Storing fermented shrimp sauce for manufacturers
For Households
After opening, secure the lid tightly and avoid refrigeration, as it may cause unpleasant odors.
Store in a dry, well-ventilated area. Regularly check for any changes in smell or color; if the sauce turns black, discard it immediately.
Storing fermented shrimp sauce for households
3. Long-Term Storage of Anchovy Sauce
During hot weather
Keep anchovy sauce in the cooler compartment of the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
During cold weather
Store anchovy sauce in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keeping it in the cooler compartment of the refrigerator is also an option.
Note: Avoid exposing anchovy sauce to high temperatures, whether from direct sunlight or appliances.
Storing anchovy sauce
4. Storing Crab Sauce
Keep crab sauce in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
After use, secure the lid tightly and store in the cooler compartment of the refrigerator, away from odor-absorbing ingredients.
Storing crab sauce
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