Does Jelly Go Bad if Not Refrigerated?

Unlike other desserts, jelly can last longer without refrigeration. But it will still go bad. Pay attention to the expiry date on the package.

Also, if your jelly is in a pot without any covering, it will go bad even faster. So, it is recommended that you should refrigerate your jelly to get the most out of it.

How Long Does Jelly Last in the Fridge?

As per USDA, unopened jellies can stay edible for up to 12 months in the fridge.

For homemade jellies, this period is around 6 months. Make sure that the temperature is around 40 Fahrenheit or lower.

Also Read: How Long Does Salsa Last in the Fridge

How Do You Know if Jelly is Bad?

One of the easiest ways to know if your jelly is bad is by looking at its expiration date or tasting it.

Additionally, there are a few things you can look out for.

Generally, jelly goes bad when it starts to form mold or grow bacteria. If the jelly has a sour smell or discoloration, that’s usually a sign that it’s gone bad.

Another clue is that jellies with high sugar content spoil more quickly than those with low sugar content.

Does Jelly Go Bad in the Fridge?

Yes, jelly can go bad in the fridge if it’s not stored properly. If it is stored in a container that is not airtight, it can develop mold or bacteria.

And if jelly is stored in a container that’s too cold, it can become brittle and hard.

So, when storing jelly in the fridge, make sure to use an airtight container and store it at the correct temperature.

How Long Does Jelly Last Unrefrigerated?

Jelly will last for about 30 days unrefrigerated.

After that time, it can start to spoil and may contain harmful bacteria. If you notice any changes in the appearance or texture of your jelly, it’s best to discard it.

Does Grape Jelly Go Bad if Not Refrigerated?

Yes, grape jelly can go bad if not refrigerated.

Although you can consume it within 6 months, it will start to form mold and become sour after that.

It’s better to store the jelly in a cool, dark place like the pantry and to keep it refrigerated once it’s opened.

Can Canned Jelly Go Bad?

Canned jelly can technically go bad, but it’s not particularly susceptible to spoilage.

Jelly is a fruit spread made from fruits that have been cooked down and thickened with pectin.

Most jellies have high sugar and acid content that act as a preserve, allowing them to last for months or even years without going bad.

That said, canned jelly can still go off if stored for too long (more than its expiry date) or in the wrong conditions.

If your jelly has developed mold, off-color patches, or an off-putting smell, it’s best to throw it out.

Can Expired Jelly Make You Sick?

Yes, expired jelly can make you sick.

Expired jelly may not seem off-look initially, but eating it is not okay. The jelly contents will become stale and may develop bacterial or fungal growth.

There are high chances that you may develop food poisoning if you eat infected or expired jelly.

Final Words

Jelly is one of those dishes that have a long life. They can even go up to 1 month if kept at room temperature.

And, if you are interested in taking your jellies for a longer period, you can place them in the fridge.

The shelf life of jelly in the refrigerator is almost 6 to 12 months. Just be sure to make it airtight to avoid any contaminations.

Crystal Hafley

Crystal Hafley is a dedicated writer and content creator for WorstBrands, where she specializes in writing insightful reviews about kitchen appliances and fashion products.

With her expertise, Crystal provides readers with accurate and reliable information to help them make informed decisions about the brands and products they use every day. When she's not researching or writing, Crystal enjoys cooking and exploring the latest fashion trends.