In this brief article, we will answer the question, “Does simple syrup go bad?” and provide information on the shelf-life of simple syrup and home-made ones, how to check for spoilage in them, whether you can store them in a freezer as well as whether vegans can consume them.
Does simple syrup go bad?
Yes, the simple syrup can go bad. Even though simple syrup actually has an indefinite shelf-life, moisture can promote spoilage of the product. Do not keep the simple syrup exposed to the environment for a longer time.
This is because the evaporation of syrup can cause a change in the water-to-sugar ratio. This can promote the growth of microbes resulting in the simple syrup getting spoilt.
What is the shelf-life of simple syrup?
The simple syrup lasts for a period of 6 months. This can also be dependent on the sugar-to-water ratio. If the sugar-to-water ratio is 1:1, then the shelf-life of the syrup can last for a month.
If the ratio of sugar to water is 2:1, it can last for approximately 6 months. Certain syrups have additives added to them, which can make them last longer.
Simple syrup can be prepared using a hot or cold process. In the hot process, the simple syrup can get sterilized which can extend its shelf-life.
How can you detect spoilage in simple syrup?
Check the appearance of simple syrup. If the simple syrup appears to be cloudy, it is an indicator of the syrup undergoing degradation. If the syrup appears to be fresh, there would be no cloudiness. The syrup will look transparent.
There can be the development of a foul odor in the simple syrup if it has become spoilt. As simple syrup contains water, it can develop mold. Condensation of water can encourage microbial growth and result in the formation of mold.
How can you store simple syrup?
You can store the simple syrup in an airtight container. Make sure to sterilize the container properly by washing them with lukewarm water.
Glass containers can be ideal for storing simple syrup. Mason jars with a proper lid can be ideal for simple syrups.
Keeping the simple syrup in the fridge can slow down bacterial growth. You can also store simple syrup in your pantry if you do not want them to be cool.
Make sure that the lid of the simple syrup properly fits the container. The lid can prevent any odors or contaminants from spoiling the syrup. Occasionally, you can wipe or sterilize the cap with hot water. Do not keep the syrup exposed to sunlight.
What is the shelf-life of homemade syrup?
Home-made syrup can last for a month if it is kept in the fridge. A pressure canner can be used for preserving the jars. You can also vacuum seal them to extend their shelf-life for more than a month.
If you do not apply heat while preparing simple syrup, it might last only for a few weeks. The addition of flavors to the syrup might further shorten its shelf-life. Some feel that the addition of a tablespoon of vodka extends the shelf life.
Can you keep the simple syrup in a freezer?
Yes, the simple syrup can be kept in a freezer. You can use a proper sterile container for this purpose. Do not store simple syrups in glass containers as they can burst inside the freezer. Use glass containers only if you plan on keeping them inside the fridge.
You can keep the syrup upright as it can turn solid depending on the ingredients that you might have used.
Once you wish to use the simple syrup, remove them from the freezer and keep the container inside a bowl of hot water. This helps in thawing them. In the freezer, the syrup might last for a year.
Can vegans consume simple syrup?
Yes, vegans can go for simple syrup. They need to simply buy simple syrups that are labeled as vegan.
The source of sugar can determine whether simple syrups are vegan. For instance, some simple syrups contain sugar prepared from bone char. In such cases, you can choose to prepare simple syrup at home as well.
How to make simple syrup?
Add a cup of water and a cup of sugar to a saucepan. Heat them on medium heat till the sugar starts to dissolve. Once the sugar has dissolved, cool them till you get a syrupy liquid. Transfer them to sterile containers.
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have answered the question, “Does simple syrup go bad?” and provided information on the shelf-life of simple syrup and home-made ones, how to check for spoilage in them, whether you can store them in a freezer as well as whether vegans can consume them.
