Pomegranate molasses is a thick, syrupy juice made from pomegranate fruit that is used to add a tart, sweet-sour flavor to dishes. But like many other homemade products, it has a limited shelf life. So how long does opened pomegranate molasses last in the fridge or freezer? Here is a quick overview:
Quick Answer
Unopened pomegranate molasses will last 1-2 years past the printed expiration date if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, pomegranate molasses will last about 1 year in the refrigerator. For maximum shelf life, store opened pomegranate molasses in the fridge in an airtight container. Pomegranate molasses can also be frozen for up to 6 months.
How to Tell if Pomegranate Molasses Has Gone Bad
There are a few obvious signs that pomegranate molasses has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat:
- Mold growth – You may notice mold growing on the surface of the molasses. This indicates the product has gone bad.
- Separation – Fresh pomegranate molasses should have a uniform, thick consistency. If the molasses separates with watery liquid on top, this is a sign it has spoiled.
- Off odors – Pomegranate molasses that has gone bad may develop a sour, fermented smell.
- Off flavors – Spoiled molasses will taste noticeably more sour than when fresh. It may have an off or bitter flavor.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the pomegranate molasses rather than risk eating spoiled product.
Shelf Life of Unopened Pomegranate Molasses
Unopened pomegranate molasses has a very long shelf life. An unopened bottle will typically display a “best by” date indicating when it should be used by for best flavor. However, pomegranate molasses can usually last:
- 1-2 years past the printed “best by” date, if stored properly in a cool, dry pantry.
- Up to 2-3 years total, stored in optimal conditions.
The acidic pH and naturally occurring preservatives in pomegranate molasses allow it to keep very well at room temperature when sealed. Monitor the product and watch for any changes in appearance, texture, or smell before opening. But unopened pomegranate molasses should stay safe and usable for around 1-2 years past its expiration date in most cases if stored in a cool, dark cabinet.
How Long Does Opened Pomegranate Molasses Last in the Fridge?
Once opened, pomegranate molasses has a shorter shelf life. But it will still keep well for about:
- 6-12 months in the refrigerator
The high acidity helps prevent bacterial growth after opening. For best quality, transfer any unused pomegranate molasses to an airtight glass or plastic container. Make sure the lid seals tightly. Store in the fridge immediately after opening.
Keep an eye on the product as it ages in the fridge. Discard if any mold, separation, or off odors develop. But properly stored, opened pomegranate molasses will maintain good quality for about 1 year.
Does Refrigeration Extend the Shelf Life?
Yes, refrigeration helps extend the shelf life of opened pomegranate molasses significantly. The cool temperatures of the fridge (40°F or below) slow down chemical reactions and microbial growth that can cause food spoilage.
Leaving pomegranate molasses out at room temperature after opening will shorten its shelf life. Pomegranate molasses left out on the counter or in the pantry will only stay good for about 1-2 months before spoiling or losing quality.
Signs of Spoilage After Opening
Watch for these signs that opened pomegranate molasses has gone bad:
- Liquid separation – Watery liquid floats on top of the molasses
- Mold growth – May see fuzzy mold on the surface
- Sour or bitter smell and taste
- Fermented odors
- Fizzing or bubbling when you open the container
Any pomegranate molasses showing these signs of spoilage should be discarded.
How to Store Pomegranate Molasses to Maximize Freshness
To get the longest shelf life out of your pomegranate molasses after opening, follow these tips:
- Transfer to an airtight container – Pour molasses into a clean glass jar, plastic container, or squeezable plastic bottle. Make sure it has an airtight lid.
- Refrigerate – Store the container in the fridge immediately after opening.
- Minimize air exposure – Limit contact with air by keeping the lid tightly sealed.
- Use clean utensils – Always use a clean spoon to scoop out molasses to prevent bacteria transfer.
- Watch for signs of spoilage – Check regularly for mold, off-odors, separation, or other signs of spoilage.
Following these steps can help maximize the shelf life and freshness of your pomegranate molasses after opening.
Recommended Storage Container
The best containers for storing pomegranate molasses in the fridge include:
- Glass jars or bottles – Glass provides an airtight seal and won’t absorb flavors or odors.
- Plastic containers – Look for BPA-free plastic made for food storage.
- Squeeze bottles – Use clean, air-tight plastic condiment bottles.
Avoid reactive metals like copper, aluminum, or cast iron as the acidity can react with the metal. Make sure any container has a tight-fitting lid that seals completely to keep air out.
Does Pomegranate Molasses Go Bad if Frozen?
Freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of pomegranate molasses even longer. Properly frozen, pomegranate molasses can keep for:
- 6-8 months in a regular freezer
- 12 months in a deep freezer
To freeze pomegranate molasses, transfer it to an airtight plastic freezer-safe container leaving about 1⁄2 inch headspace. Seal tightly and freeze. Freezing stops the growth of bacteria and yeasts that can spoil food.
For best quality, use frozen pomegranate molasses within 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator before using again. Be sure to boil molasses for 10 minutes before consuming if storing longer than 6 months.
How to Thaw Pomegranate Molasses
Thaw frozen pomegranate molasses overnight in the fridge. Don’t thaw at room temperature as this allows bacteria growth. Once thawed, use within 2-3 days.
You can also thaw in the microwave using the defrost setting. Take care not to overheat molasses as this can change the flavor. Give thawed molasses a good stir before use.
How to Store Pomegranate Molasses for Long Term
For long-term storage beyond 1 year, pomegranate molasses can be canned using a boiling water canner. This heating process kills any bacteria or yeasts in the molasses, allowing it to be shelf-stable for up to 2 years.
To can pomegranate molasses:
- Fill glass canning jars with pomegranate molasses, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace.
- Wipe rims clean and seal lids on jars.
- Process jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes.
- Allow to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
- Check jar seals, then store in a cool, dark place.
Home canned pomegranate molasses stored in a cool, dark place will keep for up to 2 years. Refrigerate after opening for best quality and follow safe home canning procedures.
How to Make Pomegranate Molasses Last
Follow these tips to extend the shelf life of your pomegranate molasses:
- Store unopened bottles in a cool, dark place like a pantry.
- Refrigerate after opening in an airtight container.
- Freeze for longer term storage.
- Can using a boiling water canner for shelf-stable storage up to 2 years.
- Keep air exposure to a minimum.
- Use clean utensils each time.
- Watch for signs of spoilage like mold or off-odors.
With proper storage methods, you can keep pomegranate molasses for over a year past its expiration date. Refrigeration and freezing help extend the shelf life significantly after opening too.
How to Use up Pomegranate Molasses Before It Goes Bad
To use up pomegranate molasses quickly before it expires, try these ideas:
- Glaze meat – Brush on chicken, pork, salmon, or lamb before roasting.
- Marinate vegetables – Toss with cauliflower, carrots, Brussels sprouts before roasting.
- Dressings and sauces – Add to salad dressings, bbq sauce, dipping sauce.
- Smoothies – Add a splash to fruit and yogurt smoothies.
- Cocktails – Mix into unique syrupy cocktails.
- Bake into muffins, breads, scones.
- Sweeten oatmeal or yogurt.
Pomegranate molasses adds a delicious sweet-tart flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. Get creative with ways to use it up quickly in marinades, baked goods, dressings, drinks and more.
FAQs
Can you freeze pomegranate molasses?
Yes, freezing extends the shelf life of pomegranate molasses significantly. It can keep frozen for 6-12 months before quality degrades. Transfer molasses to an airtight container leaving headspace and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Can you refrigerate opened pomegranate molasses?
Refrigeration helps extend the shelf life of opened pomegranate molasses to about 1 year. Always store opened pomegranate molasses in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it will maintain quality for around 12 months.
What happens if you eat expired pomegranate molasses?
Eating spoiled pomegranate molasses that is past its expiration could potentially cause foodborne illness. However, it depends how far past the expiration date and how it was stored. Small amounts of expired molasses that was properly stored in the fridge may cause no issues. But always inspect and smell before consuming expired products.
How do you know if pomegranate molasses has gone bad?
Signs that pomegranate molasses has spoiled and should be discarded include mold growth, liquid separation, changes in texture, sour/bitter odor or taste, fizzing, and other signs of fermentation. Trust your senses – if molasses smells or tastes off, it has likely gone bad.
Does pomegranate molasses need to be refrigerated after opening?
Yes, refrigeration is required to extend the shelf life after opening pomegranate molasses. The high acidity prevents bacterial growth at cool fridge temperatures. Store opened bottles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 year.
Conclusion
With proper storage techniques, unopened pomegranate molasses can last 1-2 years past its printed expiration date, and opened molasses will last around 1 year in the fridge. For maximum longevity, store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage. Discard if you notice mold, off-odors, separation, or other red flags. With optimal storage conditions, you can enjoy quality pomegranate molasses for many months after opening.
