What is the best way to store opened containers of ketchup?

[MomToTwoBoys]

I buy my ketchup in the club pack. I do this with every other condiment that is sold in both the club pack and regular size. I did the math and the club pack is extremely cheap, compared to the regular size. It also helps save the environment because it's less plastic being sold and put into this household.

I am having an issue with ketchup cans, primarily. I bought a club pack size ketchup can and filled my regular size plastic container until full. Then, I had extra ketchup leftover and decided to try to put a large coffee lid on top of it to seal it. The seal wasn't very good and alas, the lid formed a black layer all around it. This is on the can itself, not on the coffee lid.

I then tried plastic wrap around the top of it and a rubber band to hold it in place. I'm not sure if this is working or not, but I wanted to get some ideas.

What is the best way to store extra condiments that come in a can with no lid?

[MyMelody]

I'd scrape the ketchup out with a spatula into a freezer bag big enough to hold all of it, and then freeze it flat. When you see your ketchup bottle's running low, set your bag out on the counter just until you can chip off a slab or two, and then break those chunks of frozen ketchup into the bottle to thaw in your refrigerator. When your bag's empty, wash it out and use it again for the same thing. The reason I'd go for a bag over a deeper container is because a flat bag will store easily in your freezer and won't take as long to thaw a bit so pieces will break off. HTH

[frugalwarrior]

I would freeze it too. Just make sure the container is airtight and full to eliminate water build up. our club has giant bottle of ketchup banded together some we stor the other one in the pantry. (Sams Club).

[spyzvixxen]

I would just put into a reusable pitcher-type plastic container. I thought keeping things in the can in the fridge was a no-no. Something with the oxidation?

[Jeanna]

I also buy mine at Sams. The kind of ketchup I buy is in a plastic container--the kind you can put the pumps on. I tried to just use the ketchup with the pump, but because we don't use it all the time it would just get watery. I then started just filling up an empty small ketchup bottle and then just store the rest in my spare frig. I would just put yours out of the can into something plastic or glass and store it in the frig. I you are like me you would not remember to take it out of the freezer until I was a totally out--because no one never tells me when we are out.

[frugalfranny]

Ketchup doesn't have to be refrigerated so why does it have to be stored in the freezer/frozen?

I would definitely get it out of the can but store it in the smallest container to hold it and then put it in a cupboard. Shake it before use if it has sat for awhile. I never refrigerate my ketchup nor my mustard unless it says to do it on the bottle.

[mombottoo]

Canning jars work well for storage, of course you have to keep opened ketchup in the fridge. You could also use cleaned, empty peanut butter or mayo jars if you don't have canning jars.

[frugalfranny]

mombotto.......unless you might be talking about homemade ketchup...you do not have to keep it in the frig.
Nothing on the bottle says so and I called the extension agent to make sure......I buy Heinz and there is NOTHING in it that will spoil or poison you if you don't keep it in frig.
In fact, if you keep it in the frig it makes it more watery. Tomatoes are not supposed to be refrigerated for best taste either.

[coolstufferik]

Ketchup is safe to be kept in open but if I am wrong please correct me.

[hotprincesscm]

The vinegar in it, is a natural preservative...But I would think depending on how fast you go through ketchup...even if it sits too long, opened there is a potential for mold. I would keep it in some sort of covered container if anything...but I always store mine in the fridge...