While pickles start off firm and flavorful, they gradually soften and lose their taste. As per the USDA, opened pickles can last in the fridge anywhere from one to three months.

Adhere to the “Best By” date if your jar is closed, but once opened, the pickles won’t last as long as the printed date. In fact, opened pickles can go stale and even develop mold.

Any changes in flavor or smell, signs of mold, a mushy texture, or cloudy brine are all indications of spoilage, while bulges on the lid of an unopened jar indicate contamination.