Are you looking forward to enjoying some delicious maraschino cherries ice cream sundaes at your next party or family gathering? If so, then you should know that these sweet treats don’t last forever.
Maraschino cherries are candied fruits that come from Italy. They are usually sold in jars and boxes, and they are often used in desserts and cocktails.
In this article, we will be looking at the shelf life of maraschino cherries and how to know when they have gone bad.
How long do maraschino cherries last?
- Unopened: 3 years (best quality)
- Opened: 1 to 2 weeks
Stored in the right conditions, an unopened jar, can, or tin of maraschino cherries will typically maintain optimum quality for about 3 years at room temperature, but will generally remain safe to eat after that time.
After the can has been opened, the maraschino cherries should be kept in the refrigerator where they will keep for about 1 to 2 weeks
How do you know if a jar or box of maraschino cherries is spoiled?
The best way is to smell and examine the maraschino cherries. If the maraschino cherries develop an abnormal odor, taste or appearance, or if mold appears, they should be discarded. Discard jars or cans that leak, rust, bulge, or badly dented.
Is an unopened jar or can of maraschino cherries safe to eat after the “best before” date on the package?
Yes, provided it is stored in good conditions and the jar or box is undamaged. Jars and boxes of maraschino cherries are usually marked with a “best before” date. This is not a use-by date, but the manufacturer’s estimate of how long maraschino cherries will maintain optimum quality.
After this date, the texture, color or flavor of maraschino cherries may change, but in most cases they are still safe to eat if stored properly, if the jar or box is not damaged and there are no signs of deterioration.
How to prolong the shelf life of maraschino cherries
To maximize the shelf life of maraschino cherries, store the jar or can in a cool, dry place. Once you’ve opened your jar of maraschino cherry, you’ll want to keep it stored in a cool dark place. If you don’t do this, the cherries may begin to ferment and spoil. You can also use a refrigerator if you’d prefer. Just make sure that the temperature stays below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
