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If you’ve ever stored an open bottle of maple syrup in your pantry and were met with mold, this information is for you.
By
Betty Gold
Betty Gold
Betty Gold is the former senior digital food editor at Real Simple.
Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on September 18, 2023
Medically reviewed by
Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN
Medically reviewed byKristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristy Del Coro is a registered dietitian nutritionist, RDN, and professionally trained chef with more than 10 years of experience in the field of culinary nutrition. Her strong background in nutrition science, sustainable food systems, and culinary education makes her exceptionally qualified to write about food that is good for us and the planet—while not sacrificing flavor.
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It's long been a subject of debate: Does maple syrup need to be refrigerated? After all, if you're springing for the good stuff, you definitely want to store the maple syrup so that it lasts as long as possible.
We asked experts for tips on keeping your favorite already-opened bottle of maple syrup fresh—and to settle the debate about how to store maple syrup: in the refrigerator or the pantry?
Here's the scoop on exactly how to store your maple syrup, along with some clever ideas for using up the remainder of the bottle before it goes bad.
How to Store Maple Syrup
Indeed, even the biggest maple syrup lovers will rarely use a whole container all at once. When unopened, pure maple syrup has a long shelf life. But once it's opened, the exposure to oxygen means that your syrup will start to deteriorate. So what do you do with the rest of an open container?
According to Erin Lynch, an expert from Maple from Canada, there are two simple rules for keeping maple syrup once it's open:
- Avoid prolonged air exposure.
- Store your maple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Read: The pantry is not the place for your precious bottle. There's science behind this storage method. According to research conducted by Barbara Drake at Ohio State University's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, the three main enemies of maple syrup are air, time, and temperature. Even if the container hasn't been opened, the university researchers recommend placing your maple syrup in the refrigerator immediately after purchase. "If this is not possible, consider freezing the syrup," states the report.
I Just Found Out Most Breakfast Syrup Has No Maple in It and My Whole Life Is a Lie
Maple syrup packaged in tin or glass can be stored for up to one year in the refrigerator in its original container. But because plastic 'breathes,' the OSU experts advise repackaging an unopened or opened plastic syrup bottle into a glass jar if you plan to store it for more than three months.
Why Does Maple Syrup Need to Be Refrigerated?
Warm, dark conditions are an ideal place to allow mold and other not-so-pleasant microorganisms to grow—so storing an opened container of maple syrup in your cupboard is an invitation for a science experiment no one will really enjoy—and one that could make you sick.
"If excess water is present, or if containers are not clean when filled, bacteria, yeast, or mold may grow during storage," the study says. "Do not simply remove the mold and reheat the product. Some microorganisms produce toxins as they grow, and these toxins could make you sick. The product should be discarded."
The USDA recommends keeping maple syrup refrigerated for up to one year—and tossing what remains afterward. (That's if you haven't already used it on some epic pancake breakfasts!)
10 Ways to Use Maple Syrup Before It Goes Bad
If you're in search of a fun way to put almost-expired maple syrup to work, try these genius hacks from the pros at Maple from Canada—and a few of our favorite maple syrup recipes. Just remember, if you see any signs of mold or spoilage, toss the remainder and start fresh.
01of 10
Maple Ice Cubes
If you mix 1/2 cup pure maple syrup and 1 1/4 cup warm water and pour into an ice cube mold and freeze, you will have some naturally sweetened ice cubes to drop into your favorite iced tea, co*cktail, or cold brew coffee.
02of 10
Maple Candy
Did you know that you can make that special maple candy you used to bring home as a kid easily at home? Just boil pure maple syrup to 235℉ using a candy thermometer, cool it down to 175℉, and stir to thicken. Then pour the mixture into candy molds and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
03of 10
Maple Syrup as a Sugar Substitute
Pure maple syrup can be used as a more nutritious substitute for white sugar in baking as well as glazes, rubs, or barbecue sauces. To substitute for a cup of sugar, just reduce the quantity to 1/4 cup of liquid in the recipe.
10 Smart Substitutes for Brown Sugar
04of 10
Hasselback Challah French Toast
This easy brunch dish makes French toast for a crowd easy to make—and features plenty of maple syrup in the recipe (and you'll want more to drizzle on at the end).
Hasselback Challah French Toast
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Maple Vinaigrette
Maple syrup in the salad dressing helps balance a bold (and slightly bitter) salad with radicchio and radishes.
Get the Recipe
06of 10
Spicy Maple Lemonade Pops
These refreshing ice pops will hit every flavor note—sweet, tart, and a little bit spicy—and will use up a cup of maple syrup.
Get the Recipe
07of 10
Maple Sweet Potatoes With Pecan Praline
Maple may be the perfect flavor for fall—and this elegant side is perfect for a Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe
08of 10
Maple Pumpkin Pie
Maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness to the ultimate fall dessert.
Get the Recipe
09of 10
Easy Toss-and-Bake Granola
Oats, dried fruit, and nuts get a touch of sweetness from maple syrup for this recipe.
Get the Recipe
10of 10
Maple Roasted Vegetables
Maple syrup makes a great glaze on salmon, pork, and other goodies—including a tasty assortment of root vegetables.
Get the Recipe
Finally, keep in mind that real maple syrup is made with only one ingredient: 100 percent pure maple syrup. Other ingredients on the label? It's likely closer to corn syrup.
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