Are you wondering how long rhubarb jam will last? If so, you’re not alone. Many people are confused about the shelf life of rhubarb jam, and it’s something that can be a bit of a worry for those who like to store their jams and jellies safely and reliably.
In this article, we’ll answer all of your questions about the shelf life of rhubarb jam, including the length of time it will last and what to do if it starts to go bad.
How long does rhubarb jam last?
The shelf life of rhubarb jam can vary depending on the type and quality of the product, and also on the storage conditions. Always store your jams and jellies in a cool, dark place to ensure they stay fresh for as long as possible.
Rhubarb jam (unopened jar)
- Ambient temperature: 2 years (best quality)
Stored in the right conditions, an unopened jar of rhubarb jam typically maintains optimum quality for about 2 years at room temperature. To maximize the shelf life of rhubarb jam, store it in a cool, dry place.
Rhubarb jam (open jar)
- Refrigerator: 2 to 3 weeks
Open rhubarb jam must be refrigerated and will last for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. Generally, an open jar of rhubarb jam will be safe to consume after the “use by” date printed on the label, but it is best to eat it soon after opening. To maximize the shelf life of rhubarb jam after opening the jar, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Is an unopened jar of rhubarb 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 rhubarb 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 rhubarb jam will retain optimum quality.
After this date, the texture, color, or flavor of rhubarb 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 rhubarb jam is expired?
The best way is to smell and examine the rhubarb jam. If the rhubarb jam smells, tastes, or looks abnormal, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
Rhubarb jam storage tips
- Store rhubarb jam in a cool, dry place
- You can also refrigerate to improve shelf life
- Discard spoiled jars
- After opening, always refrigerate in an airtight container
We hope that this information will help you make an informed decision about how long to keep your jams and jellies stored.