Dried cranberries are great in so many dishes—salads, baked goods, as a quick snack. But have you ever wondered how long do dried cranberries last in your pantry before they go bad? Knowing the shelf life of dried cranberries will help you get the most out of your purchase and avoid food waste. Let’s get started!
First off: how long are dried cranberries good for? On average you can expect properly stored dried cranberries to be good for about 12 to 18 months. But depending on how you store them they might still be safe to eat after that.
To get the most shelf life out of your dried cranberries follow these simple tips:
Storing your dried cranberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator will extend their shelf life significantly and keep them fresh and flavorful for much longer.
You might be wondering can dried cranberries go bad? Yes, they can, although they have a long shelf life they are not immune to spoilage. Here are the signs to look out for:
To get even more shelf life out of your dried cranberries vacuum seal them. This removes the air which prevents the oxidation process that can cause spoilage.
Also using silica gel packets in your storage container will absorb excess moisture and keep your dried cranberries dry and fresh.
Dried cranberries have a long shelf life due to their low moisture content. When stored properly you can expect your dried cranberries to be good for 6 to 12 months. The key to getting the most shelf life out of them is how you store them. Proper storage will not only keep them good longer but also preserve the flavor and texture.
You should store dried cranberries in an airtight container out of direct sunlight and moisture. This can be a plastic bag, a glass jar with a tight fitting lid, or even a mylar bag with an oxygen absorber for maximum preservation. Storing them in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard will help extend their shelf life.
If you’ve opened the package it’s best to consume the dried cranberries within a month for peak quality. But opened packages can last several months if stored in an airtight container and in the refrigerator.
If you want to get even more shelf life freeze them. Dried cranberries can be frozen for up to a year and still taste and texture will not be affected. Just put them in a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze. When you’re ready to use them just take out what you need and let them thaw at room temperature or add them to your recipe.
Dried cranberries will last a bit when stored properly so they’re a great pantry staple. Now you know how long dried cranberries are good for and when they’re bad you can enjoy them worry free. Go ahead, stock up, and try them in your favorite recipes!
If in doubt always better to be safe and get a fresh batch. Happy snacking!
