Plum or prune jam is a delicious condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. But how long does prune jam last? And what should you do if it starts to go bad?
In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more, so you can keep your plum jam shelf life as long as possible. We’ll also share some tips on how to store prune jam safely so it lasts longer. Read on to learn everything you need to know!
What is the shelf life of an unopened jar of plum jam?
The shelf life depends to a large extent on the storage conditions. let us look at unopened and opened jars-
Unopened plum jam (unopened jar)
- Ambient temperature: 2 years (best quality)
Stored in the right conditions, an unopened jar of plum jam typically maintains optimum quality for about 2 years at room temperature. After this period the product will start to go bad and it will be fit for consumption only if it is not damaged. To maximize the shelf life of plum jam, store it in a cool, dry place.
Opened plum jam (open jar)
- Refrigerator: 2 to 3 weeks
The shelf life of an opened jam jar depends on how well you have sealed the lid and how the product has been stored. If stored properly, plum jam usually keeps for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator after opening the jar. To maximize its shelf life, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Is an unopened jar of plum jam safe to eat after the “best before” date on the jar?
Yes, provided it is stored in good conditions and the jar is not damaged. Commercial jars of plum jam 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 plum jam will retain optimum quality.
After this date, the texture, color, or flavor of plum jam 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 plum jam has expired?
The best way is to smell and examine the plum jam. If the plum jam smells, tastes, or looks abnormal, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
Storing Plum jam
It’s best to store the plum jam in the refrigerator. It can also be kept at room temperature in a cool, dark place, although the shelf life will be shorter. Opened cans/jars of plum jam must be kept in the refrigerator at all times to preserve its freshness and quality.
For more information, read our post on how to store jams and jellies.
While the shelf life of plum jam is two years, you can still use it after this time. But if you are not keen on keeping your plum jam for too long, just store it in a cool and dry place. In case you notice any change in its color or quality, then throw it out!
