Expiration & Storage Tips
When does liquid sweetener expire?
Most liquid sweeteners can last indefinitely if properly stored, thanks to their high sugar content which often acts as a natural preservative. That said, they tend to lose their best quality after about 2 years unopened, and once opened should be consumed within 1 year. However, sweeteners like honey can crystallize over time but are still safe to eat - just warm gently to return to their liquid state. If the sweetener is homemade, it's safest to consume within 6 months. Freezing isn't a typical scenario for liquid sweeteners, but if you do, they can last indefinitely yet might change in texture.
How do you tell if liquid sweetener is bad?
Signs that your liquid sweetener has gone bad include an off smell, change in color, and visible mold growth. It's always a good practice to sniff your sweeteners before use. If it emits a foul or weird smell, it's time to throw it out. Also, if any solid or fuzzy substances are floating around the bottle, or you observe changes in color, it's best not to consume it as these could be signs of bacterial or fungal growth.
Tips for storing liquid sweetener to extend shelf life
• Store your liquid sweetener in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Make sure to tightly seal the bottle or container after each use to prevent exposure to air, which can introduce bacteria or other contaminants.
• Use clean, dry utensils when handling your sweeteners to avoid introducing moisture which can promote the growth of mold. Use a separate spoon or pour carefully from the bottle to prevent contamination with other foods.
• If your sweetener crystallizes (common with honey), don’t throw it out! You can easily decrystallize it by placing the container in a bowl of hot water and stirring until the crystals dissolve. Never put the container directly on the stove or microwave as extreme heat can damage the nutritional values.