Does Brown Sugar Go Bad

Does Brown Sugar Go Bad Or Is It The Other Way Around?

Does brown sugar go bad?

This is another tough question to answer because there are a lot of speculations that revolve around it. As a basic kitchen ingredient, it is not surprising that sugar got the attention of many people. In many recipes, they are included, which brings to the point that knowing their lifespan is downright important.

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For starters, this article will help clear the issue regarding this particular matter about brown sugar.

I have to answer this question right from the start. It is the only way we can proceed properly.

Whether you believe me or not, brown sugar can last indefinitely. Does brown sugar expire? It may not--as long as it is stored properly.

Unlike meat, fruits, and vegetables, brown sugar is not that organic. It doesn't have perishable components that suffer from the ravages of time. Well, in time, it might depreciate, but it will take a lot before its quality is no longer suitable for consumption.

Brown sugar lasts in your kitchen indefinitely. As long as its container is not compromised by insects and other elements, it will have a sustained lifespan. It can go on for years without being spoiled.

Of course, we can see some brown sugar in the market with a label of "best within two years." Should you take heed on this information? For me, there's no harm if I comply on it. There's a possibility that after that given period, the sugar may not be that tasty or sweet anymore. However, these changes are difficult to detect, unless you have a sharp tongue.

Now that you know how long does brown sugar last, it is prim and proper that you learn how to store it properly. After all, it is the only way to ensure that this particular ingredient will be able to maintain its indefinite lifespan.

How To Store Brown Sugar?

How To Store Brown Sugar?

The correct storage of food and other kitchen ingredients is very crucial in extending their shelf life. There are no magic tricks when it comes to preserving food. Given the fact that we won't be using any artificial preservatives, we are left with no choice but to store the sugar away from contaminants and spoil-inducing elements.

Fortunately, brown sugar is not sensitive. You don't need to be overly cautious when it comes to storing it. The process is actually simple and hassle-free, so the only thing that you need to do is to find the appropriate containers for its storage.

  • The way you store brown sugar is quite the same as when you do with white sugar. This simply means that you have to find a cool and dry place as the compartment for this kitchen item. The perfect place is the cupboard in your pantry. However, kitchen cabinets work, too, especially if they are not exposed to heat and air.
  • Again, sugar is highly reactive to heat. It will immediately melt when it is exposed to high temperatures. Because of this, you need to move it away from heaters, ovens, and any other source of heat. Sugar just do well with this particular element. Even if its shelf life is indefinite, it doesn't mean that it is impervious to heat already.
  • Also, be careful that you store it in wet places. Keep in mind that sugar is still a form of carbohydrates. Carbs, from a general perspective, is an excellent water absorbent. Any water that is within its presence will be absorbed. Of course, we are aware already of the outcome when sugar is saturated with water. It gets diluted and diffused.
  • You don't need to put the sugar in a new container as its original package has not yet been opened. The packaging of brown sugar is designed to keep the air and water from penetrating. If you have opened it already, you might need to look for an airtight container. As much as possible, the storage of the brown sugar should have a tight seal. This would prevent the nasty elements from coming in. Probably, this is the best way on how to keep brown sugar soft once opened. Take note that are containers that are specifically designed for sugar. You might want to get them if you prioritize aesthetics and functionality at the same time.
  • Bugs and insects like ants love sugar, whether the latter is brown or white. Therefore, having a clean storage space is quite beneficial. You should not make your kitchen or pantry a magnet for these nasty creatures. Of course, you need to ensure that your sugar container has a good seal. It prevents the smell of the sugar from leaking out.

Knowing how long can you keep brown sugar is not enough. You should also know the ways on how to protect it from potential spoilage.

Meanwhile, here’s a good video that explains the art of storing sugar:

How To Keep Brown Sugar From Clumping?

How To Keep Brown Sugar From Clumping?

Over time, brown sugar will be susceptible to drying out. That's why you want to learn how to keep brown sugar moist.

Once it dries, it hardens. The granules would harden until clumps are formed. Trust me. You don't want to use this kind of sugar. Even if it still sweet, it has lost its quality already. Of course, clumped sugar doesn't mean that they are spoiled already. That's a misconception. The reason why these clumps are discouraged from being used is because they are difficult to manipulate.

Sugar, when in its top condition, is free-flowing. It is suitable for both baking and cooking. If it goes clumped, then its usability has been decreased.

There's a device called sugar saver that can assist you in keeping the moisture of the sugar at the proper level. When you have this device, the chances of clumping is almost nixed.

But what to do if brown sugar is hard? Try the following tips!

  • The first one is by manually breaking the clamp. It sounds arduous, but it is the most logical way to eliminate the clumps. They are ways you can do this. You can use a fork, or you can put the sugar in the bag and start pounding it on a hard surface--like your wall. Alternatively, you can also use a blender.
  • The second one is adding moisture to the container. There are innovative ways on how to do this. One of these methods is by adding an apple wedge to the sugar container then sealing it. Next one is putting a slice of bread together with the sugar. If that's not enough, you can add orange peels and let them sit with the sugar overnight.

This video shares some other useful tricks on how to prevent the sugar from clumping:

Conclusion

Sugar can last indefinitely in your kitchen. That's a fact. As long as it is stored properly, you should not worry about spoilage anymore. The only thing that you focus here is how you can maximize the use of this ingredient in your recipes!

Of course, keep in mind that too much sugar is bad for your health!

That's it for now. If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.

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