How To Store Miso Paste After Opening

Wondering how to store miso paste after opening it? This post covers the best ways to keep miso fresh in the refrigerator or freezer, with simple tips to preserve its flavor longer. Enjoy cooking with miso—no more storage worries!

Learn more about miso paste on What Is Miso?, Types of Miso Paste Explained, or What Does Miso Taste Like?

How to Store Miso in the Refrigerator

Miso can be stored at room temperature, but it is sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, which can cause its color to darken as it continues to ferment. Keeping it in the refrigerator is the best way to maintain its freshness and flavor.

If your miso paste comes in a plastic cup, just pop it in the fridge as is. To keep the surface from drying out or oxidizing, cover it tightly with plastic wrap before putting the lid on.

If it’s in a bag, press out all the air and seal it tightly—or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh.

How to Store Miso in the Freezer

Freezing miso is a great way to keep it fresh if you don’t use it often. It helps preserve the flavor by pausing fermentation and preventing any changes in taste.

Also, miso doesn’t fully freeze because it has a very low water content and a high salt content. Even straight from the freezer, it stays soft enough to scoop—no thawing needed!

The original packaging may not be freezer-safe, so I recommend transferring the miso to a container or bag that is freezer-safe. Just like with refrigeration, cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Airtight Container for Miso Paste

If you’re transferring your miso to another container, enamel is a great option. It’s tough against acids and salt, doesn’t hold onto smells, and helps keep bacteria away—perfect for keeping your miso fresh.

3 different miso types in a food container.

Miso usually comes in packs of 500g to 1kg, which can be a bit bulky. That’s why I recommend using a container with a handle—it makes grabbing it from the fridge so much easier.

I personally use the Noda Horo storage container with a handle, and it’s perfect. It’s easy to move around, and most store-bought miso comes in square plastic tubs that fit right inside!

Is This Miso Still OK to Eat?

Even when stored properly in the fridge, miso can darken and develop a sour taste, making you wonder if it’s still safe to use. For more details on miso paste’s shelf life, signs of spoilage, and everything you need to know, check out Does Miso Paste Go Bad?