Garlic oil is a popular kitchen staple used to add rich flavour to a variety of dishes. However, unlike many other infused oils, garlic oil has a limited shelf life and requires careful storage. Understanding how long garlic oil lasts can help you avoid spoilage and potential health risks.
Garlic oil typically lasts 3-7 days in the fridge when homemade. Store-bought garlic oil can last several months if unopened, but always check the label.
What Is Garlic Oil?
Garlic oil is made by infusing oil (usually olive oil) with fresh garlic. It’s commonly used in cooking for sautéing, drizzling over dishes, or as a base for marinades and dressings.
There are two main types:
- Homemade garlic oil – made using fresh garlic cloves
- Store-bought garlic oil – commercially prepared, often treated to improve shelf life
The key difference between them lies in safety and preservation.
Garlic Oil Shelf Life Explained
The shelf life of garlic oil depends on how it’s made and stored.
Homemade Garlic Oil
- Lasts 3-7 days in the fridge
- Should never be stored at room temperature
- Must be kept in an airtight container
Store-Bought Garlic Oil
- Unopened: can last 6-12 months
- Opened: typically lasts 1-3 months in the fridge
- Often contains preservatives or has been acidified to extend shelf life
Homemade versions spoil much faster due to the presence of fresh garlic and lack of preservatives.
Why Garlic Oil Can Be Dangerous
Garlic oil isn’t just about shelf life, it’s also about safety.
Fresh garlic in oil creates a low-oxygen (anaerobic) environment, which can allow harmful bacteria like Clostridium botulinum to grow. This bacteria produces toxins that can cause serious illness.
This risk is why:
- Homemade garlic oil should always be refrigerated
- It should be used quickly (within a week)
- It should never be stored at room temperature
How to Store Garlic Oil Properly
To maximise shelf life and keep garlic oil safe:
- Store in the fridge immediately after making
- Use a clean, airtight container
- Label it with the date it was made
- Keep it away from light and heat
If you want longer-lasting garlic oil, consider using dried garlic instead of fresh, as it significantly reduces the risk of bacterial growth.
How to Tell If Garlic Oil Has Gone Bad
Garlic oil doesn’t always show obvious signs of spoilage, but watch for:
- Unpleasant or sour smell
- Cloudiness or unusual texture
- Bubbling or gas formation
- Off or bitter taste
If in doubt, throw it away. It’s not worth the risk.
Can You Freeze Garlic Oil?
Yes, freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of garlic oil.
- Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning
- Store frozen garlic oil for up to 3 months
- Defrost only what you need
This method is especially useful if you make garlic oil in batches.
Check out our guide on how to store garlic.
Does Garlic Oil Expire?
Yes, garlic oil does expire, especially homemade versions.
Even if it looks and smells fine, it should not be used beyond the recommended timeframe. Store-bought versions last longer, but once opened, they still need proper refrigeration and timely use.
Elevate Your Cooking with Garlic Oil
Garlic oil is a simple way to elevate your cooking, but it comes with a short shelf life and important safety considerations. Homemade garlic oil should be used within a week and always stored in the fridge, while store-bought options offer longer-lasting convenience.
When it comes to garlic oil, freshness and proper storage are key to both flavour and safety.
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