We will talk about Cream of tartar shelf life that many people ask about. We don’t use Cream of Tartar often, but in certain situations we need it. So most of us sometimes forget about Cream of Tartar, how long we have stored it or we think about how long it will last in storage.
Sometimes some of us have kept it for months or even others have kept it for a year. So, it’s natural that we want to know how long the shelf life of Cream of Tartar is, and how to store it properly to extend its shelf life.
Some of us don’t even know about Cream of Tartar, what is Cream of Tartar? Ok, this is an ingredient used in making cakes, it is also called potassium bitartrate, it is used to thicken cakes or as an anti-caking agent. Maybe you think of it as baking soda, where the taste can be lost over time.
If that’s what you think, then you are right..!
If you want to know more about Cream of Tartar, how to store it, the shelf life of Cream of Tartar, etc. then this article is suitable for you to read until the end.
Does Cream of Tartar Go Bad?
Cream of Tartar will not be damaged if it is not exposed to water, meaning it will remain good and can be used forever. But its potential will not last forever, meaning its potential will decrease over time. After you keep it for a few years, it will no longer be as effective as when it was new.
But there is an advantage, where Cream of Tartar does not need to rely on the best-by date stated on the label. You also don’t need to ask whether Cream of Tartar has expired, because it is permanent and only the potency and effects decrease.
How to Test if Cream of Tartar Is Still Good?
Want to check out Cream of Tartar? To find out whether Cream of Tartar is still effective or not, you can do this. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of Cream of Tartar with 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, do this in a mug. Then pour half a cup of hot water in the glass and see the results.
If the mixture produces foam, then Cream of Tartar can still be used for things like baking, or stabilizing egg whites and whipped cream and various other things.
A mixture of 2 parts Cream of Tartar and one part baking soda is often used as a homemade baking powder, and the easiest way to find out whether the baking powder is still working is to pour hot water over it.
Ok, now let’s see how long Cream of Tartar is actually good to use. Here we explain about the shelf life of Cream of Tartar.
How Long Does Cream Of Tartar Last
How long is the shelf life of Cream of Tartar? It can last several months after the print date before losing its potency. If it has expired, then make sure you test its efficacy. The way to test its efficacy is as explained above (mix 1/2 Cream of Tartar and 1/4 baking soda and add 1/2 cup hot water, shake and see if the mash foams).
Usually, Cream of Tartar has a very long shelf life, sometimes it can last up to 4 years after its production date, and its potency remains even after it expires, so a few days after the expiration date, Cream of Tartar can still function properly.
After Expiration Date
The best-by date listed is only an estimate of how long tartar powder will last, and using it on that date is still quite safe. That is why you can still use Cream of Tartar several months after the expiration date.
However, if you find Cream of Tartar that has expired, it is best to test its efficacy. So, this way you will definitely know clearly whether it is still effective to use or vice versa.
How to Store Cream of Tartar
Ok, to maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of Cream of Tartar, of course you have to know how to store it properly.
The way to store Cream of Tartar is the same as you store similar products such as baking soda and baking powder. So, the correct way to store Cream of Tartar is to keep it away from heat sources, or sunlight and also away from moisture. You can store it in your kitchen cupboard, and don’t forget to cover it properly.
Cream of Tartar often attracts moisture from the air, so you should store it in a tightly closed container.
Tip
If Cream of Tartar is in paper packaging, then store it in a jar that can be closed tightly after you open the packaging. This paper packaging can provide a little protection to prevent moisture.
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When to Toss Cream of Tartar?
Do you want to throw away Cream of Tartar? If you see damage due to exposure to water when storing or due to exposure to a heat source, then it is certain that the Cream of Tartar has rotted and you can throw it away.
But if it is always dry and not exposed to water, the Cream of Tartar will not be damaged, even if it is slightly exposed to water, it will still last and not cause mold to grow. But the tartar powder will form some small lumps, these can be removed again if broken up with a spoon. So, tartar powder is very durable even for years as long as it is stored well.
However, if a lot of water enters, the tartar slurry will be damaged. If it has turned into a solid lump, or there is mold growth, then it’s time to throw it away. Likewise, if you see black spots starting to appear on the jar.
An unusual, unpleasant smell can also be a sign of spoilage and you can throw it away.
