Yes, because condiments containing fats (mayo, butter) go rancid more quickly and keeping it refrigerated staves off rancidity. Refrigeration is a proven way to extend shelf life.
If you examine the condiment packets from fast food restaurants, most do not have an expiration date. It's because packets are shipped by the thousand in bulk and a recommended manufacture “Expiration Date” is displayed on the container.
The date on the shipping box is usually not an official expiration date, but a “Best By” date to ensure peak quality – and in most cases, you can consume products after this date as long as they are stored properly.
There is no official guideline from the USDA or FDA for condiments – or any food for that matter. With the exception of infant formula and some baby foods, product dating is not generally required by Federal regulations (source: fsis.usda.gov).
Sealed foil packaged condiments provide an impermeable barrier from light, air and moisture. This allows the product to last from years – if not decades.
Learn more about the expiration date of condiment packets shared by OutdoorHerbivore.com.
Have you ever wanted to make your own homemade version of Ranch dressing but didn’t know how? Check out this easy ranch dressing and dip recipe from OneHundredDollarsaMonth.com.