Preserving heritage: How long can homemade preserves last?
Preserves are an essential part of many Polish pantries and basements. But how long can they be stored without losing their quality? This question is on the minds of many people preparing homemade jams or pickles. The answer is clear.
4 October 2024 19:22
Most people enjoy opening a jar of plum preserves in the middle of autumn and adding homemade pickles to a meal. Preserves are a perfect way to retain fruits and vegetables' taste and nutritional value.
However, proper storage of preserves is essential to enjoying their flavour for as long as possible. The best place to store them is in the basement. It's important to remember that humidity and cold in the basement can affect the preserves' longevity. The room must be dry, with good ventilation and a constant temperature, ideally between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.
How long can preserves last?
The shelf life of preserves largely depends on their type. Most can be stored in the basement or pantry for a year. However, products with added sugar (like jams, preserves, juices) and vinegar (e.g., pickles) can remain in perfect condition for up to two years.
Nevertheless, proper canning of jars and storing them under the right conditions is absolutely crucial. If the preserves are stored in kitchen cabinets, they should be consumed within a few weeks.
Preserves can expire
Harmful microorganisms begin to develop in preserves kept longer than recommended. So, if you want to eat a jar of pickles that's been sitting in the basement for three years, it's better not to risk it. To avoid any doubts, every jar should be labelled with the preparation date, including the month and year.
