Elderberry syrup has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its high antioxidant content and antiviral properties. But with its growing popularity comes the question of how to properly store it.
Can elderberry syrup go bad if not refrigerated? The answer is yes, but the longevity of the syrup depends on how it’s made and how well it’s taken care of.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect the shelf life of elderberry syrup and provide tips on how to properly store it to ensure its freshness and effectiveness.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about this powerful natural remedy!
Does Elderberry Syrup Go Bad If Not Refrigerated?
Elderberry syrup is essentially a fruit juice, and like any other fruit juice, it can begin to ferment if left out at room temperature for too long. This fermentation process can cause the natural compounds in the syrup to break down, reducing its effectiveness and potentially making it unsafe to consume.
While it is possible to store elderberry syrup at room temperature, it is not recommended. The syrup should be kept in an airtight container, preferably glass, and stored in the refrigerator when not in use. This will help to prevent the syrup from fermenting and ensure its freshness and effectiveness.
If you have homemade elderberry syrup, its shelf life can be extended by adding an acidifier like lemon juice, citric acid, malic acid, or the liken and keeping it in the “way back” of the refrigerator. However, even with an acidifier, homemade elderberry syrup generally lasts 2-3 weeks if the pH is not below 4.2.
On the other hand, store-bought elderberry syrup typically contains preservatives that allow it to last longer outside of the refrigerator. However, these preservatives are often sugar-laden and unhealthy for our bodies. It is still recommended to refrigerate store-bought elderberry syrup for longer shelf-life and to ensure its freshness and effectiveness.
Factors That Affect The Shelf Life Of Elderberry Syrup
Several factors can affect the shelf life of elderberry syrup. One of the most important factors is how the syrup is made and stored. Homemade elderberry syrup stored in a glass jar generally lasts 2-3 weeks if the pH is not below 4.2. However, its shelf life can be extended anywhere from 3 to 6 months if you’ve added an acidifier like lemon juice, citric acid, malic acid, or the liken and keep it in the “way back” of the refrigerator.
Another important factor that affects the shelf life of elderberry syrup is whether it contains natural honey as an additional ingredient. Although honey can be used as a preservative, it will become diluted once mixed with elderberry juice and succumbs to the same fermentation process as the fruit itself. In most cases, honey is added to elderberry syrup to improve the flavor and add a subtle sweetness to it. Furthermore, natural honey is rich in things like antioxidants and can help suppress cold and flu symptoms, making it a good complement to elderberry.
The storage conditions of elderberry syrup also play a crucial role in determining its shelf life. Elderberry syrup should be kept in an airtight container, preferably glass, and stored away from heat sources, such as radiators and direct sunlight. Proper storage in the refrigerator is the best way to keep elderberry syrup fresh and safe to consume.
Finally, the quality of elderberry extract used in making the syrup can also affect its shelf life. Many products contain added sugar, preservatives and other fillers that reduce the potency of the extract and can increase spoilage. It is important to ensure that you are using high-quality elderberry extract to make your syrup.
How Long Does Elderberry Syrup Last?
The shelf life of elderberry syrup depends on various factors, including how it was made and how it is stored. Generally, homemade elderberry syrup stored in a glass jar can last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator if the pH is not below 4.2. However, if an acidifier like lemon juice or citric acid is added, its shelf life can be extended up to 3-6 months.
Store-bought elderberry syrup typically lasts longer than homemade syrup due to the addition of preservatives. However, it is still recommended to refrigerate store-bought elderberry syrup for longer shelf-life and to ensure its freshness and effectiveness. It is important to check the expiration date on the packaging and follow any storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
If elderberry syrup is left out at room temperature, it may begin to ferment and go bad much quicker. On the counter, elderberry syrup may last as little as 4-5 days before beginning to ferment. However, when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, elderberry syrup can last for up to 90-180 days depending on the storage conditions.
If you have elderberry syrup that has been infused with natural honey, it is important to shake the bottle well before use to stir up any settled honey. Additionally, it is recommended to do a quick taste and scent test before consuming elderberry syrup that has been stored for a few months or longer.
Signs Of Spoiled Elderberry Syrup
It is important to be able to identify the signs of spoiled elderberry syrup to avoid consuming potentially harmful or ineffective syrup. Here are some signs to look out for:
1. Discoloration: Elderberry syrup that has gone bad may have a darker or cloudy appearance than fresh syrup.
2. Sour or musty odor: Spoiled elderberry syrup may have a sour or musty smell, indicating that it has begun to ferment.
3. Off-putting taste: If the elderberry syrup tastes different than it did when you first opened it, this could be a sign that it has gone bad.
4. Unpleasant smell: Elderberry syrup should have a pleasant smell, but if it starts to smell unpleasant or offensive, it is best to discard it immediately.
If you notice any of these signs in your elderberry syrup, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it away. Consuming spoiled elderberry syrup can lead to adverse health effects and may not provide the immune-boosting benefits that fresh, properly stored elderberry syrup can offer.
Proper Storage Of Elderberry Syrup
To properly store elderberry syrup, it is important to keep it in an airtight container, preferably glass, and store it in the refrigerator when not in use. This will help to prevent the syrup from fermenting and ensure its freshness and effectiveness.
If you have homemade elderberry syrup, its shelf life can be extended by adding an acidifier like lemon juice, citric acid, malic acid, or the liken and keeping it in the “way back” of the refrigerator. However, it is important to note that even with an acidifier, homemade elderberry syrup generally lasts 2-3 weeks if the pH is not below 4.2.
When it comes to store-bought elderberry syrup, it is still recommended to refrigerate it for longer shelf-life and to ensure its freshness and effectiveness. While store-bought elderberry syrup typically contains preservatives that allow it to last longer outside of the refrigerator, these preservatives are often sugar-laden and unhealthy for our bodies.
To ensure that your elderberry syrup remains fresh and effective, it is also important to check for mold or fermentation regularly. The sourish smell is the first sign that your elderberry syrup isn’t good anymore. You may also notice dark mold spots. If you are unsure about the condition of your syrup, it is better to err on the side of caution and toss it out.
Tips For Maintaining Elderberry Syrup Freshness And Potency
If you want to ensure that your elderberry syrup remains fresh and potent, there are a few things you can do:
1. Store it in an airtight container: Elderberry syrup should be stored in an airtight container, preferably glass, to prevent air and moisture from getting in. This will help to maintain its potency and prevent it from going bad.
2. Keep it refrigerated: Refrigeration is key to keeping elderberry syrup fresh and potent. Always store your elderberry syrup in the refrigerator when not in use, even if it is store-bought and contains preservatives.
3. Check the expiration date: Whether homemade or store-bought, elderberry syrup has an expiration date. Be sure to check the label for the expiration date and discard the syrup if it has passed.
4. Shake well before use: If your elderberry syrup contains honey, be sure to shake the bottle well before use. This will ensure that any settled honey is mixed back into the syrup.
5. Do a scent and taste test: Before consuming elderberry syrup, do a quick scent and taste test to ensure that it hasn’t gone bad. If it smells or tastes off, discard it.
6. Freeze unused portions: If you have homemade elderberry syrup that you won’t use within 2-3 weeks, consider freezing it in small portions. This will help to extend its shelf life and ensure its freshness when you’re ready to use it.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your elderberry syrup remains fresh and potent for as long as possible.
Conclusion: Elderberry Syrup Is A Powerful Natural Remedy That Requires Proper Storage
Elderberry syrup is a powerful natural remedy that has been used for centuries to boost the immune system and fight off cold and flu symptoms. However, in order to reap the benefits of this potent syrup, it is crucial to store it properly.
As we’ve seen, elderberry syrup can go bad if not stored correctly. This can reduce its effectiveness and potentially make it unsafe to consume. To ensure that your elderberry syrup remains fresh and potent, it should be stored in an airtight container, preferably glass, and kept in the refrigerator when not in use.
If you have homemade elderberry syrup, adding an acidifier and storing it in the back of the fridge can extend its shelf life. However, even with an acidifier, homemade elderberry syrup typically only lasts 2-3 weeks if the pH is not below 4.2.
Store-bought elderberry syrup often contains preservatives that allow it to last longer outside of the fridge. However, these preservatives can be unhealthy for our bodies. It is still recommended to refrigerate store-bought elderberry syrup for longer shelf-life and to ensure its freshness and effectiveness.
