Using pasta sauce way after 14 days of opening and refrigerating it is not recommended for safety reasons. Once a jar of pasta sauce is opened, it becomes perishable and can support the growth of harmful bacteria. While refrigeration slows down the growth of bacteria, it does not stop it entirely.
The general guideline for perishable foods like pasta sauce is to consume them within a few days after opening, usually within 3 to 5 days. After 14 days, the risk of bacterial contamination and spoilage significantly increases, even if it appears and smells fine.
To ensure food safety, it's best to adhere to the recommended storage times for opened pasta sauce and other perishable items. If you're unsure about the sauce's freshness or whether it's safe to consume, it's better to err on the side of caution and discard it. Consuming spoiled or contaminated food can lead to foodborne illnesses, which can be serious and potentially life-threatening in some cases.
To reduce waste, you can buy pasta sauce in smaller quantities or consider freezing portions of the sauce after opening, which can extend its shelf life for several months. Just make sure to transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and thaw it properly before using.