Fridge, cupboard or either? There’s only one correct storage procedure for popular condiments like jam, jellies and marmalade.
The debate over whether certain foods should be refrigerated or stored in a cupboard for longer preservation has been ongoing for some time. One such food that often raises this question is jam. So, where does jam belong – on the shelf or in the fridge?
Jam is a thick, sweet spread made from fruit and sugar, typically prepared by cooking chopped fruit until it reaches a setting point. It’s a popular topping for toast, pancakes, waffles, yogurt, oatmeal, and ice cream, and can even be used as an ingredient in cakes and a variety of other dishes due to its fruity flavour.
While consumers can easily purchase their favourite brand of jam from supermarkets, or even make it themselves at home, the storage recommendations are the same for both: once the lid has been opened, it needs to be refrigerated.
Hartley’s, a well-known British brand of jams, jellies, and marmalades, has clarified the proper way to store jam, stating: “We recommend keeping your jam in the fridge after opening. Modern homes are much warmer than they used to be, with better insulation and central heating. This can mean an open jar will spoil more quickly in a cupboard. If you pop the lid back on tightly and store it in the fridge, your jar should last at least six weeks after opening.”
For homemade jellies, storage guidelines are different. It’s advisable that homemade jams or jellies have to be stored in an airtight container in a cold fridge as soon as they are made, and they will last for about 72 hours.
Though it may seem ironic that jam is commonly found on supermarket shelves rather than in the fridge, the reason behind this is the airtight seal on the jar. This seal helps preserve the jam for long periods by keeping the ingredients condensed and preventing the growth of bacteria. However, this is only effective as long as the jar remains sealed. Once opened, the jam is exposed to air, which can cause spoilage over time.
Refrigerating jam after opening helps maintain its quality and prevents it from spoiling quickly. Despite the high sugar content, which is typically a preservative, refrigeration significantly extends the jam’s shelf life. Also, exposure to air increases the risk of bacterial growth and acidity, which can make the jam unsafe to eat. Therefore, storing your jam in the fridge after opening is a simple step to ensure its longevity and safety.