If you’re looking for a versatile and delicious recipe that can be used in many different ways, look no further than apple jelly. This versatile recipe is perfect for using up leftover apples and can be served as a dessert, snack, or even an ingredient in baking recipes.
However, like any other recipe, apple jelly has a shelf life. If you plan on storing it for long periods, it’s important to know how long the jelly will last.
How long does apple jelly last?
The precise answer to this question depends to a large extent on the storage conditions. Let us look at both unopened and opened apple jelly containers and provide a range of predictions.
Apple jelly (unopened jar)
- Ambient temperature: 2 years (best quality)
Stored in the right conditions, an unopened jar of apple jelly typically maintains optimum quality for about 2 years at room temperature. To maximize the shelf life of apple jelly, store the jar in a cool, dry place.
Apple jelly (open jar)
- Refrigerator: 2 to 3 weeks
Apple jelly will usually keep for about 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator after opening the jar. To maximize the shelf life of apple jelly after opening the jar, store it in the refrigerator with the lid tightly closed.
Is an unopened jar of apple jelly safe to eat after the “best before” date on the jar?
Yes, provided it is stored in good condition and the jar is not damaged. Jars of apple jelly are usually marked with a “best before” date, but this is not a best before date; this is the manufacturer’s estimate of how long the apple jelly will retain optimum quality.
After this date, the texture, color, or flavor of apple jelly may change, but in most cases, it will still be safe to eat if stored in the correct conditions, if the jar is not damaged and if it shows no signs of tampering.
How do you know if apple jelly is expired?
The best way is to smell and examine the apple jelly. If the apple jelly smells, tastes, or looks abnormal, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
Storing apple jelly
Apple jelly To store apple jelly correctly, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you will be keeping apple jelly for a longer period, it is best to store it in the refrigerator. The jar should be dated and have an “expiry” date so you can determine when it is best to eat it.
