Expiration & Storage Tips
When does strawberry purée expire?
Strawberry purée, once opened, will usually last up to 5-7 days in the refrigerator. If unopened and stored in the refrigerator, it should retain freshness for about 1-2 weeks from the 'sell by' date on the packaging. If you've frozen your purée, it should be good for about 6-9 months, though it may lose some of its texture and flavor over time.
How do you tell if strawberry purée is bad?
To tell if your strawberry purée has gone bad, look for changes in color, texture, or smell. The purée should retain a vibrant red color. If it has become dull or brownish, this is an indication of spoilage. Similarly, the texture should be smooth and somewhat thick; any sign of separation or excessive thinning can mean that the purée is no longer good. Lastly, the smell should be fresh and fruity. If you detect a sour or off smell, it's best to discard the purée.
Tips for storing strawberry purée to extend shelf life
• Always make sure to store your strawberry purée in the refrigerator. The cooler temperature slows down microbial growth, thus prolonging the purée's shelf life.
• If you are not planning to use the purée within a week, freezing it is a good option. Just portion it out into separate containers or sealable plastic bags so you only have to defrost what you need.
• If you have opened the purée and want to prolong its shelf life in the refrigerator, consider transferring it into an airtight container. Exposure to air can accelerate spoilage, so minimizing this can keep your purée good for longer.
• Finally, whenever using some of the purée, be sure to use a clean spoon each time to avoid introducing bacteria, which could shorten its shelf life.