We all know the fact that sugar is one of the components which could be found in almost every house. It has a number of uses as well. And because of its importance, you might worry about whether how long it lasts. Along with that, you would want to know how to store it properly, how to determine whether it is bad or not, and even how to restore sugar as well. But, does sugar go bad?
Continue reading and learn the answer now.
How Long Does Sugar Last?
Indeed, the shelf life of sugar is indefinite so it means that keeping sugar even for a number of years could be possible and it could still be used after a period of a long time. But, there could be some minor issues associated with sugar that you should be aware of. However, there are as well proper ways of storing it in order to avoid certain issues.
There is a fact that sugar is a huge water absorber so it absorbs even a tiny bit of water and might begin to harden leading to clumps. Indeed, sugar could last for the longest period of time, and proper ways of storage are also required.
Does Sugar Go Bad?
I have mentioned earlier that the shelf life of sugar is indefinite so this means that sugar doesn’t expire. Most producers would place a “Use By” or “Best By” date on its package but it doesn’t mean that the sugar will be bad or spoiled after the indicated date. Once properly stored, sugar could be kept for a long period of time.
But when bugs reach the sugar, it might be the worst probable situation that might happen. Once there is already a bug in the package, there is a need for you to get rid of this package immediately then just open another one.
So the answer to the question “does sugar go bad” is so simple and that is the lifespan of sugar is indefinitely making it last for the longest period of time as well. But despite such great news, still, be guided by the fact that sugar could still spoil or go bad once isn’t stored properly and taken care of.
In addition, most manufacturers of sugar would place a 2-year “best by date” on the sugar bags, but still, the product is safe to use even after the indicated date.
Spoiled, Rotten, or Bad Sugar: How to Tell?
Though sugar might not be bad, spoiled, or rotten for the longest period of time, you might still be in doubt so you could look for certain signs. It would be best to check the sugar if the texture has stayed the same or once it has gotten mushy or clumpy.
Also, you might look closely if there is a change in the form or color over a certain period of time. It might not change at all. You might also consider smelling the sugar if there is a hint of unwanted odor. And as a simple small test, use a small spoon to see whether the flavor is still there and if it doesn’t make you sick.
But, the biggest thing that you must be aware of is the presence of insects or bugs in the container or jar as this might be a great sign that the sugar isn’t safe to be used at all.
Proper Storage of Sugar For Shelf Life Extension
You might have encountered different types of sugar, right? But whatever type of sugar you have, it should be stored in a dry and cool place such as a cupboard or a specialized container which is away from sources of extreme temperatures like microwave ovens and stoves.
And if you think that a refrigerator is a good place in order to store sugar, well you are definitely wrong!
In order to prevent the sugar from hardening, it must always be kept away from moisture knowing the fact that it is a great absorber of water. Once the sugar has already hardened or once it is already in clumps, worry not as you could just break it up with a fork or with the use of an electric mixer.
On the other hand, it would be better if you are to store sugar in an airtight container. If the sugar is unopened, it must be safe from any bugs in its original packaging. And if it is opened, it would be great that you transfer the sugar into an airtight container as you could be sure that there would be no bugs or insects that could crawl inside it.
Indeed, storing sugar in the airtight container would as well guarantee that it might not absorb any odors. Once the sugar has a strange odor, it might be due to poor storage, and it got the said smell from the other foods.
Final Thoughts
Still, in doubt, does sugar go bad? Again, because of its indefinite shelf life, sugar might not be spoiled once properly stored for the longest period of time. There is just a need to simply store the sugar in a tightly sealed container or jar, and you could still use it safely even after the indicated expiration date.
Thanks for reading. Please do like and if you have some more suggestions feel free to share them with us. Stay tuned with cookingispassio.com. Happy cooking!
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