Expiration & Storage Tips
When does pickled beet expire?
Unopened commercial jars of pickled beets will typically last for up to 1-2 years at room temperature, providing the seal remains intact. Once opened, they should be kept refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 weeks for optimal freshness. Homemade pickled beets are typically safe to eat for several months when stored in a cool, dry place, but for the best quality, consume them within 1 month. Freezing pickled beets isn't typically recommended due to potential texture changes.
How do you tell if pickled beet is bad?
You can tell if pickled beets have gone bad if the brine becomes cloudy, if you see mold on the beets or inside the jar, if the color has changed from its usual vibrant purple to a dull hue, or if the odor is off and strongly sour. Also, if the seal on a commercial jar is bulging or if the lid pops up when opened, this may indicate spoilage. Construction of the jar, such as cracked or broken glass, compromise the pickle's integrity, thus not safe to consume.
Tips for storing pickled beet to extend shelf life
• Always store your jar of pickled beets upright. This ensures the beets remain submerged in the brine, preventing spoilage.
• Once opened, keep your jar in the refrigerator. The cool conditions halt the growth of bacteria, extending their shelf life.
• When making homemade pickled beets, ensure your jars, lids, and other utensils are clean and sterile. This helps to prevent bacterial growth and prolongs the shelf life of the pickles.
• Be sure to seal the jars tightly after each use to keep air out and maintain freshness.
• If you notice that there are pieces of beetroot sticking out of the brine in the jar, make sure to push them back into the brine to prevent these pieces from spoiling.
• Avoid using metal spoons or utensils to scoop out the beets from the jar as metal can react with the vinegar in the brine, compromising the quality of the pickles.