Expiration & Storage Tips
When does sun dried tomato expire?
Sun-dried tomatoes once unopened can last for about a year in your pantry without a problem, even without refrigeration, provided they are kept in a cool dry place. If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil and have been opened, they should be refrigerated and will usually stay good for about a month. Also, remember, do not use the same spoon to scoop out your tomatoes, this would introduce bacteria into the jar, shortening the lifespan of your tomatoes. The shelf life of homemade sun-dried tomatoes can be quite variable, so it's always best to use them within a few days to a week. Freezing sun-dried tomatoes, especially those packed in oil, can extend their shelf life up to 6 to 12 months.
How do you tell if sun dried tomato is bad?
When sun-dried tomatoes go bad, these are some of the signs you should look out for: unusual foul smell, mold or a slimy film appearing on the surface. Also, if your oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes start to bubble or fizz, it might indicate the growth of yeast or bacteria, so it's best to discard them.
Tips for storing sun dried tomato to extend shelf life
• Store unopened, vacuum-packed sun-dried tomatoes in a cool dry pantry.
• Once opened, if your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil keep them refrigerated. Be sure to keep them submerged in the oil for best preservation.
• Homemade sun-dried tomatoes should be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for maximum longevity.
• When freezing, distribute your sun-dried tomatoes into portion sizes to avoid defrosting more than you need. To defrost, simply move the required portion to the refrigerator a day before you plan to use them.
• To revive dried-out sun-dried tomatoes, you can soak them in warm water or broth to bring back the chewy texture.
• Using clean, dry utensils when handling the sun-dried tomatoes, especially the ones packed in oil, minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination.