Bacon jam is a trending condiment and with good reason. This delicious, savory concoction adds a perennial favorite — bacon — to countless recipes and snacks. In the 1920s, bacon jam was a must-have for making breakfast foods like bacon burger sliders, bacon jalapeno poppers, and a tasty bacon party dip.
Bacon jam is hot right now, and not just when you use it to make spicy bacon wings. But once you’ve stocked up on this increasingly popular ingredient, how do you store it?.
To avoid food poisoning and other unpleasant, and sometimes life-threatening, illnesses, it is important to know how to store bacon jam the right way, just like you would any other meat product. No one knows bacon jam better than TJ Gourmet. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide for how to store bacon jam.
Bacon jam has become a beloved condiment for its irresistible blend of sweet savory and smoky flavors. Slathered on burgers, sandwiches, dips, and more, this bacon-y spread adds a tasty kick. But with any perishable food, proper storage is crucial for safety and maintaining quality.
So how long is bacon jam actually good for? Does refrigeration extend its shelf life? And can you freeze it? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about storing bacon jam to keep it fresh and delicious.
How To Store Unopened Bacon Jam
Unopened commercially prepared bacon jam purchased in jars can be stored in the pantry. Check the manufacturer’s “best by” date on the label and be sure to use within that timeframe.
Typically, unopened bacon jam lasts for about 1 year in the pantry if continuously stored in cool, dark place below 75°F. Heat and light will speed up the aging process.
Once opened, bacon jam must be refrigerated and used within the recommended window. Never store an open jar in the pantry.
Refrigerating Opened Bacon Jam
Once you crack open that jar of bacon jam, refrigeration is key for safety and preserving freshness.
Here are some tips for storing opened bacon jam in the fridge:
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Keep it in its original container or transfer to an airtight storage jar or container. Air exposure dries it out.
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Make sure your refrigerator temperature is 40°F or below. Higher temps allow bacteria growth.
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Use clean utensils each time you scoop out bacon jam to prevent cross-contamination. Never double-dip.
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Write the date you opened it on the label so you know when it was first refrigerated.
Under proper refrigeration, opened bacon jam lasts for 2 to 4 weeks. High salt, sugar, and preservative content helps inhibit bacteria growth during this window.
Watch for drying, changes in texture, mold growth, and foul odors which are signs opened bacon jam has spoiled and should be discarded.
Freezing Leftover Bacon Jam
Got leftovers? Freezing extends the shelf life of opened bacon jam for several months. Here’s how to do it right:
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Transfer leftover jam into airtight freezer bags or containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace to allow for expansion.
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Divide into smaller portions to avoid thawing more than needed.
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Press out excess air and seal bags tightly. Oxygen causes freezer burn.
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Label each container with contents and freeze-by date (2-4 months from when you opened it).
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Place flat in freezer to freeze quickly. Avoid overstacking.
Properly frozen, bacon jam keeps well for 4 to 6 months before quality and flavor diminishes. Discard if you see ice crystals, dry spots, or changes in color.
Thawing & Using Frozen Bacon Jam
When ready to use frozen bacon jam, follow these thawing methods:
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Fridge thawing: For slower thawing, place sealed jam in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. Once thawed, use within 5-7 days.
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Cold water thawing: For quicker thawing, submerge the sealed freezer bag or container in a bowl of cold tap water, changing the water every 30 mins. Use within 2 days.
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Microwave: For a quick fix, microwave in 10 second bursts, checking often. Use immediately after thawing.
Avoid leaving frozen jam to thaw at room temperature more than 1-2 hours. Bacteria grows rapidly above 40°F.
The great flavor and texture of properly frozen and thawed bacon jam makes it perfect for recipes, burgers, and other goodies!
Homemade Bacon Jam Shelf Life
Whipping up your own homemade bacon jam? Follow similar storage guidelines:
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Store an unopened homemade jam in the fridge for 1-2 weeks maximum. Discard if you see any mold.
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An opened homemade jam lasts up to 1 week in the fridge in an airtight container before quality declines.
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For longer storage, freeze homemade bacon jam for 2-3 months.
Because homemade versions lack commercial preservatives, the shelf life is shorter than store-bought. Always err on the side of caution.
Signs Your Bacon Jam Has Spoiled
Watch for these signs that your bacon jam has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Mold growth
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Foul odors
- Bubbly appearance
- Discoloration
- Dry, hard, or crumbly consistency
When in doubt, remember the old saying: “When in doubt, throw it out!” Don’t risk getting sick from spoiled bacon jam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common bacon jam storage questions:
How long does opened bacon jam last in the fridge?
Opened bacon jam lasts 2 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze opened bacon jam?
Yes, opened bacon jam can be frozen for 4 to 6 months.
How do you know if bacon jam has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled bacon jam include mold, stickiness, foul smell, change in color or texture.
Can you put unopened bacon jam in the fridge?
You can, but it’s not required. Unopened jam in the pantry lasts about 1 year.
Is freezer-burned bacon jam safe to eat?
Bacon jam with mild freezer burn is safe but may be drier. Severely burnt jam should be discarded.
Can you freeze and re-freeze bacon jam?
It’s not recommended. Re-freezing causes loss of quality and flavor.
The Bottom Line
With proper refrigeration and freezing, you can keep bacon jam tasting great for months past its opened shelf life. But don’t forget to label containers, watch for signs of spoilage, and freeze it in usable portions.
You’ll be ready to spread the bacon love whenever the craving strikes!
Freezing bacon jam with freezer bags
Another option for storing bacon jam is to use freezer bags. Again, try to put only as much bacon jam into each bag as you will use at once. Before you seal the bag and put it in the freezer, make sure to get rid of as much air as you can.
How long can you refrigerate bacon jam?
Bacon jam is safe to refrigerate for two to four weeks after it has been opened. The refrigeration process will keep those nasty bacteria at bay for this period. There is another way to store bacon jam if you need to keep it for longer than four weeks. You could freeze it.