# Why Commercial Ketchup Can Stay Safe Beyond Its Printed Date

2026-08-06T14:28:48+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Unopened commercial ketchup can remain safe for a year or two beyond its printed date, Deccan Herald reports. Its durability comes from several safeguards working together: vinegar creates acidity, concentrated tomato solids reduce moisture, while sugar, salt, heat processing and protective packaging limit bacterial growth. Ketchup typically has a pH of about 3.3 to 4.0. Deccan Herald says Heinz chemists in the late 1800s increased tomato pulp and balanced it with sugar and vinegar to avoid sodium benzoate. Many Indian brands still use the permitted preservative. Under heat or light, sodium benzoate and vitamin C can form small amounts of benzene. Preservative-free ketchup needs tight pH, acidity and microbiological controls because tomato paste varies.

## Coverage

- deccanherald.com <https://www.deccanherald.com/connect/why-your-ketchup-lasts-two-years-and-what-it-took-to-make-one-that-doesnt-need-preservatives-4101240>

Tags: benzene, food safety, ketchup, preservatives
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