Well preserved with its own sugar
Dates ensure a long shelf life by themselves, as they naturally form a lot of sugar. This acts like a preservative and keeps harvested dates fresh for a long time. If the storage conditions are optimal, the dates can be enjoyed for up to four weeks.
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Dry dates are even more durable
Dried dates, as they are most commonly sold in our latitudes, far exceed the shelf life of fresh dates.
- Dried fruits can be kept for a whole year
- lost a lot of moisture while drying
- are therefore less susceptible to germs
After a year the fruits become harder, the sugar crystallizes and the aroma disappears more and more. But they are still edible.
Do not store in the refrigerator
When it comes to optimal storage conditions, it makes no difference whether fresh or dried dates are stored. In this country, out of ignorance, dates are stored in the refrigerator or packed in a plastic bag. However, both storage methods are not ideal.
Dates belong in the cellar
Fresh dates stored in plastic bags take on their taste over time. In addition, condensation can form and lead to mold growth.
It is best to store fresh dates in a cardboard box in a cool place, such as a basement. A cool pantry is also suitable, provided the temperature remains below 10 degrees Celsius.
Store dry dates in a jar
Dried dates also quickly take on a plastic odor and lose their typical aroma. Although dry dates have a long shelf life, they lose moisture over time. You should keep them in a sealable container, where they are protected from moisture loss and do not dry out further.
Store dates in the freezer
Storing the dates in the freezer affects their consistency and taste, but it is definitely possible.
Dried dates can be frozen without any problems. With fresh dates, it depends on whether they are really fresh. Dates are often frozen after harvest for the long transport route and sold as fresh dates after thawing. It is not recommended to freeze dates twice.
It should be possible to buy really fresh dates in e-commerce. These can be frozen.
The garden journal freshness-ABC
How can fruit & vegetables be stored correctly so that they stay fresh as long as possible?
The garden journal freshness ABC as a poster:
- as free PDF file to print out on your own