Grape jelly is a popular food item that is enjoyed by many people around the world. However, grape jelly can have a short shelf life, which may surprise you.
In this article, we’ll explain why grape jelly has a short shelf life, and what you can do to extend its shelf life. We’ll also share some tips for storing grape jelly safely so that it lasts longer.
How long does grape jelly last?
The precise answer to this question depends to a large extent on the storage conditions. As long as it is properly dated and stored in a cool environment away from direct sunlight, grape jelly can be enjoyed safely for an extended period. Let us look at unopened and opened jars of grape jelly to give you an idea:
Unopened jar of grape jelly
- Ambient temperature: 2 years (best quality)
Stored in the right conditions, an unopened jar of grape jelly typically maintains optimum quality for about 2 years at room temperature. However, depending on the manufacturing process and the storage conditions, grape jelly may be stored for longer without deteriorating. To maximize the shelf life of grape jelly, store the jar in a cool, dry place.
Opened jar of grape jelly
- Refrigerator: 2 to 3 weeks
Once opened, the grape jelly will typically last in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 weeks. However, depending on how it is handled and stored, it may start to spoil sooner. To extend its shelf life, store opened jars of grape jelly in the refrigerator with the lid tightly closed.
Is an unopened jar of grape jelly safe to consume after the “best before” date on the jar?
Yes, provided it is stored in good condition and the jar is not damaged. Jars of grape 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 grape jelly retains optimum quality.
After this date, the texture, color, or flavor of the grape 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 grape jelly is expired?
The best way is to smell and examine the grape jelly. If the grape jelly smells, tastes, or looks abnormal, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
Storing grape jelly
It is best to store grape jelly in a cool, dry place. Once opened jars of grape jelly must be kept in the refrigerator with the lid tightly closed.
