Jam is a breakfast table essential. Perfect for topping toast, brioches, and yogurts, its sweet taste and many fruit flavors are a delight for both children and adults. Do you know the best way to store it so it keeps all its flavor? Here are all the tips you need to know to store your jam jars and enjoy them for as long as possible without taking any risks.
The Importance of the Best Before Date
For jam, it is imperative to rely on the Best Before Date. This date indicates the period during which you can store the jam so that it retains its nutritional and taste qualities. This date is often quite far off: nearly two years for certain jams. However, make sure to store the jars away from light and humidity in a closed cupboard.
Storing an Already Opened Jar of Jam
Jam is rarely consumed in a single sitting (except perhaps by some foodies!). Once the jar is opened, it must be stored in the refrigerator. The fridge should be set between 4 and 5 degrees Celsius. You can then keep the jam for about fifteen days. Beyond that, its consistency may deteriorate, and it will have to be discarded. Note that jam contains a large amount of sugar (55% on average). This sugar acts as a natural preservative. The higher the sugar content, the better it will keep. Conversely, low-sugar preparations will not last as long. Therefore, check the labels to estimate the shelf life.
Observe the Jam Before Eating It
If your jam was put in the fridge a few days ago, check its appearance and smell before eating it. A bad smell should alert you, and you should avoid consuming the jam. Similarly, an abnormal or lumpy consistency should raise a red flag. It is not uncommon to see a layer of mold appear near the lid. This phenomenon is normal and is usually due to oxidation. Remove this layer of mold and consume the jam as usual. The color of the fruit may also change, which is normal and should not worry you.
Industrial Jam vs. Homemade Jam: What is the difference in preservation?
Industrial jam will tend to keep longer, sometimes because of the sugar level or the presence of preservatives. Homemade jam, which is often more flavorful, should be monitored closely even though it can be kept, unopened, for several months in a cupboard. Always make sure to sterilize the jars thoroughly to limit the risk of contamination.
Jam: Watch Your Utensils
Most contaminations that introduce germs and bacteria are caused by the utensils used. Therefore, whenever you enjoy your jam, be careful and use a very clean spoon or knife. Also, avoid dipping the utensil successively into butter and then into the jam, at the risk of spreading bacteria.
Continue to enjoy your jam peacefully every day.