Maple syrup is a popular sweetening choice for your pancakes or waffles. But have you ever wondered whether storing maple syrup at room temperature is safe? The answer may not be as straightforward. While some bottles may sit on grocery store shelves, essential distinctions between the different types of syrup dictate how they should be stored.
In this article, we’ll explore whether maple syrup can be safely stored at room temperature, why refrigeration is recommended, and how to ensure your syrup stays fresh for as long as possible.
The Difference Between Real Maple Syrup and Pancake Syrup
First, it’s important to know the difference between real maple syrup and regular pancake syrup before learning how to store them properly.
- Real maple syrup is made from 100% sap from sugar maple trees. It contains no additives or preservatives and is an entirely natural product.
- Pancake syrup, on the other hand, is typically made with corn syrup or cane sugar and artificial flavorings to imitate the taste of maple syrup. Because of its processed ingredients, pancake syrup is less vulnerable to spoilage and can be stored at room temperature for extended periods.
If you’re unsure which type of syrup you have, check the label. If it reads “100% pure maple syrup,” you’re holding the real deal, and that requires more careful storage than the commercial alternatives.
Can You Store Maple Syrup at Room Temperature?
No, storing pure maple syrup at room temperature for an extended period is unsafe. While commercial pancake syrup is fine on the pantry shelf, real maple syrup lacks preservatives, making it more susceptible to spoilage, mold, and bacterial growth.
Maple syrup should continually be refrigerated after opening, but even unopened bottles are best stored in the fridge. Pure maple syrup, due to its natural composition, can spoil if left at room temperature, even if unopened.
The Risks of Storing Maple Syrup Improperly
Because real maple syrup is preservative-free, storing it at room temperature can lead to the growth of mold, sour smells, and off-coloring. Mold can grow on the surface of the syrup, making it unsafe to consume. If you notice any signs of mold, it’s best to discard the syrup immediately.
While the fridge is the safest option for storing maple syrup, one exception is hot-packed maple syrup. This canning method allows maple syrup to be shelf-stable until opened. However, once you’ve opened the bottle, it should still be transferred to the refrigerator to avoid spoilage.
How Long Can You Store Maple Syrup?
How long maple syrup can last depends on how it’s stored and the type of packaging.
- In the refrigerator: Maple syrup stored in the fridge can last up to a year if it’s in glass or metal packaging. If stored in a plastic bottle, it will last about three to six months. This is because plastic can “breathe,” meaning oxygen can penetrate the container and cause the syrup to spoil faster. For more extended storage, consider transferring syrup from plastic to a glass container, like a Mason jar.
- In the freezer: You can also freeze maple syrup if you want to store it for an extended period. Freezing preserves the syrup indefinitely and won’t expand or burst the container. Store the syrup in an airtight, freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the fridge before use.
Best Storage Practices for Maple Syrup
To keep your maple syrup fresh and free from mold, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate after opening: After opening, put real maple syrup in the fridge to keep it fresh and prevent mold and bacteria.
- Store unopened bottles in the fridge: Even if the bottle is unopened, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
- Use glass containers for long-term storage: If you purchase maple syrup in plastic bottles, pour it into a glass jar for longer freshness.
- Freeze for long-term storage: If you don’t use maple syrup regularly, freezing it will keep it fresh indefinitely without altering its flavor.
- Watch for mold: If you notice mold, discard the syrup. Even scraping off the mold may not eliminate all contamination.
Final Thoughts
Real maple syrup tastes fabulous and all natural, but it has to be stored properly if it is going to stay tasting great and safe. Unlike artificial syrups, real maple syrup does not contain preservatives, so if you leave it sitting outside, it may become moldy or spoiled. Be sure to store your maple syrup in the refrigerator after you’ve opened a bottle to keep it fresh & consider freezing it for later.
Following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your maple syrup for months—whether drizzled over pancakes, used as a baking ingredient, or stirred into coffee. Keep your syrup fresh and ready to enjoy with these best practices in mind!
