All About Pomegranate molasses
Your complete guide to pomegranate molasses - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Pomegranate molasses Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for pomegranate molasses in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
unopened, pantry/room temperature1-2 years (refer to 'Best By' date, often lasts longer)
Signs of Spoilage
Very rare for unopened bottles to spoil. Look for a compromised seal (leaks, bulges), or visible mold if the seal was somehow breached. Significant discoloration beyond natural darkening, or an uncharacteristic cloudiness could also be a sign.
How to Check
Check the 'Best By' or 'Best Before' date on the bottle. Visually inspect the bottle for any damage, leaks, or signs of mold growth if the seal appears compromised. The color might darken slightly over very long periods, which is normal and not a sign of spoilage.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. The high sugar and acid content act as natural preservatives, giving it a very long shelf life when sealed.
opened, refrigerator6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Mold growth (fuzzy white, green, or black spots on the surface or around the rim), a yeasty or alcoholic off-smell, bubbling or fizzing (indicating fermentation), significant change in color (cloudiness, murky appearance, beyond natural darkening), or an unusually thin/watery consistency.
How to Check
-
Visual Inspection: Look closely for any signs of mold, cloudiness, or bubbling. Check the neck and rim of the bottle thoroughly.
-
Smell Test: It should smell sweet and tangy, like pomegranates. Any sour, fermented, yeasty, or alcoholic odor is a strong indicator of spoilage.
-
Texture Check (optional/careful): It should remain thick and syrupy. If it's unusually thin or clumpy, it might be compromised.
-
Taste Test (only if all other signs are clear): A very small taste; if it tastes off (sour, bitter, metallic, or unpleasant), discard immediately.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration is highly recommended after opening to prevent mold and fermentation, especially in warmer or humid climates. Always use clean utensils to avoid introducing contaminants. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use. Natural darkening of color over time is normal and not a sign of spoilage.
opened, pantry/room temperature3-6 months (can be shorter in warm/humid conditions)
Signs of Spoilage
Mold growth (fuzzy white, green, or black spots), strong yeasty or alcoholic off-smell, bubbling or fizzing (indicating fermentation), significant change in color (cloudiness), or an unusually thin/watery consistency.
How to Check
-
Visual Inspection: Look closely for any signs of mold, cloudiness, or bubbling. Check the neck and rim of the bottle.
-
Smell Test: It should smell sweet and tangy. Any sour, fermented, yeasty, or alcoholic odor indicates spoilage.
-
Texture Check (optional/careful): It should remain thick and syrupy. If it's unusually thin or clumpy, it might be compromised.
-
Taste Test (only if all other signs are clear): A very small taste; if it tastes off (sour, bitter, metallic, or unpleasant), discard immediately.
Storage Tips
While possible, storing opened pomegranate molasses at room temperature carries a higher risk of fermentation and mold compared to refrigeration, especially in warm or humid environments. Refrigeration is always the safer and more effective option for extending its shelf life once opened. If storing at room temperature, keep it in a cool, dark place away from heat and direct sunlight, and ensure the lid is tightly sealed.