Have you ever reached for the bottle of maple syrup in your pantry and questioned how long it has been since you’ve used it? Or opened a container only to notice its texture seemed different compared to the last time you made pancakes? If so, then this blog post is here to answer all your questions surrounding whether does maple syrup go bad. We’ll look at what to watch out for, which signs indicate when it’s no longer safe to eat, and how best store that breakfast staple. Read on if you need an update on expiration dates and storing tips.
Contents
- 1 What Is Maple Syrup?
- 2 How Is Maple Syrup Made?
- 3 How Is Maple Syrup Used For?
- 4 Health Benefits Of Maple Syrup
- 5 Does Maple Syrup Go Bad?
- 6 How Long Can Maple Syrup Last?
- 7 How To Know When Maple Syrup Goes Bad?
- 8 How To Store Maple Syrup?
- 9 Tips To Store Maple Syrup
- 10 What To Do About Moldy Maple Syrup?
- 11 Conclusion: Does Maple Syrup Go Bad?
- 12 FAQ: Maple Syrup
- 12.1 How long does maple syrup last once opened?
- 12.2 Is it OK to eat expired maple syrup?
- 12.3 Can you eat 10 year old maple syrup?
- 12.4 Does 100% maple syrup expire?
- 12.5 Does maple syrup go bad if not refrigerated?
- 12.6 What is the white stuff floating in maple syrup?
- 12.7 Can moldy maple syrup be saved?
- 12.8 Why does my maple syrup taste like alcohol?
- 12.9 Is maple syrup good after 2 years?
- 12.10 Can I reboil my maple syrup?
- 12.11 Can I freeze maple syrup?
- 12.12 Which color of maple syrup is healthiest?
What Is Maple Syrup?
Maple syrup is a type of natural sweetener that’s made from the sap of maple trees. The process of making it involves collecting the sap, filtering and boiling it until its water content is reduced down to about 66%, then bottling or canning it for sale. It’s been used as a sweetener for centuries and can be used in everything from pancakes and waffles to coffee, smoothies, or glazes for meat dishes.

How Is Maple Syrup Made?
The process of making maple syrup begins by tapping the trunks of maple trees to collect the sap. The sap is then filtered and boiled until it’s reduced down to about 66% sugar content, at which point it’s bottled or canned for sale. Syrup makers often use a grading system such as “Grade A” and “Grade B” to indicate the quality of the syrup. Grade A has a lighter color and is generally used for pancakes, crepes, and other similar dishes; Grade B is darker and more robust in flavor and is commonly used for baking applications.
How Is Maple Syrup Used For?
Maple syrup can be used in a variety of recipes, from savory entrees such as glazed salmon and pork chops to classic breakfast favorites such as pancakes, waffles, and French toast. It’s also popularly found in baking recipes for breads, cakes, muffins, cookies and more. In addition to being added to recipes, maple syrup can be used as an extra sweetener for coffee, tea and smoothies.
Health Benefits Of Maple Syrup
In addition to its sweet and delicious taste, maple syrup also has some health benefits. It’s high in antioxidants and contains minerals such as zinc, calcium, potassium, iron and magnesium. It also contains small amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Some research suggests that maple syrup may help boost immunity, improve digestion and aid in weight loss.
Does Maple Syrup Go Bad?
The good news is that maple syrup generally doesn’t go bad. As long as it’s kept sealed and stored properly — at room temperature in a cool and dry spot — it should last for up to two years. Even when opened, it can still be used safely with some minor changes in texture and aroma.
How Long Can Maple Syrup Last?
The shelf life of maple syrup depends on its grade and whether it’s been opened or not. Unopened Grade A syrups will typically last at least a year, while unopened Grade B syrups may last up to two years before they start to lose flavor and become less viscous. Once opened, it’s best used within a few months as the flavor and texture will begin to degrade over time.
You may also notice some changes in color and texture from oxidation – this is normal and not an indication of spoilage. To help ensure your syrup stays fresh for longer, be sure to store it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as both can cause the syrup to spoil more quickly. It’s also important to keep your maple syrup sealed if not in use.
How To Know When Maple Syrup Goes Bad?
However, there are a few things to watch out for that indicate maple syrup is no longer safe to eat. If you notice any of the following signs, then it’s best to discard the syrup, even if it hasn’t reached its expiration date:
– Off odor or flavor
– Mold or other discoloration on the surface of the syrup
– Crystals forming on the bottom of the container
– Thick consistency that doesn’t flow easily from a spoon
How To Store Maple Syrup?
To help ensure your maple syrup stays fresh for as long as possible, here are a few tips to follow:
– Keep it sealed if not in use
– Store in the pantry at room temperature and away from direct sunlight or heat sources
– Once opened, refrigerate for up to two months

Tips To Store Maple Syrup
1. Keep it sealed if not in use
2. Store at room temperature and away from direct sunlight or heat sources
3. Once opened, refrigerate for up to two months
4. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the syrup immediately
What To Do About Moldy Maple Syrup?
If you notice any mold growing on the surface of your syrup, discard it immediately. Mold can be dangerous if ingested, so it’s important to take preventive measures and dispose of the syrup in a safe manner.

Conclusion: Does Maple Syrup Go Bad?
Now you know whether does maple syrup go bad or not. In conclusion, maple syrup has a long shelf life when stored properly — up to two years for unopened Grade A syrup, and up to two months once opened. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of spoilage and discard the syrup if any are present. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your maple syrup for as long as possible. Thanks for reading at mollysmtview!
FAQ: Maple Syrup
How long does maple syrup last once opened?
To start, genuine maple syrup should be refrigerated after opening. This will help to maintain its flavor and quality. When stored properly in the fridge, pure maple syrup can last for up to a year. On the other hand, opened jugs of imitation maple syrup can be safely kept in the pantry for about the same amount of time. It is important to note that although imitation maple syrup can last for up to a year, its quality will begin to degrade over time. So, if you want to enjoy the best taste possible, we recommend consuming it sooner rather than later.
Is it OK to eat expired maple syrup?
Contrary to popular belief, the expiration date on maple syrup is not a safety precaution. It is instead a way for manufacturers to protect themselves from potential complaints. Therefore, expired maple syrup is safe to use, as long as it has been stored properly and there is no mold present. Follow these guidelines to ensure your safety while consuming expired maple syrup.
Can you eat 10 year old maple syrup?
Discover the truth about maple syrup’s shelf life once opened. Contrary to popular belief, mold is not uncommon. According to StillTasty.com, 100 percent pure maple syrup can be kept for up to a year unopened in a pantry, a year after being opened in the refrigerator, and indefinitely in the freezer. Don’t let your maple syrup go to waste, be sure to store it correctly.
Does 100% maple syrup expire?
You may be wondering if syrup ever goes bad. Technically, the answer is no. The experts at Ben’s Sugar Shack, which produces maple syrup in New Hampshire, claim that pure maple syrup with high sugar content doesn’t expire. This means you can keep an unopened container of syrup on your shelf for as long as you want.
Does maple syrup go bad if not refrigerated?
If you have unopened hot-packed pure maple syrup, you can keep it in the pantry at room temperature for up to a year or more. However, once you open the bottle, it’s necessary to store it in the fridge. Pure maple syrup is a natural product that doesn’t contain preservatives, which makes it susceptible to spoilage and mold growth. Ensure your maple syrup stays fresh and follows the proper storage guidelines by refrigerating it after opening.
What is the white stuff floating in maple syrup?
White bubbles can be a common occurrence in syrup and are completely safe to consume. They occur when air gets trapped in the syrup during the manufacturing process, and are more likely to appear if the bottles have been shaken vigorously during transportation. While they may look unappetizing, white bubbles are not harmful to your health and do not affect the taste of the syrup. Over time, the bubbles will naturally rise to the surface and disappear. However, depending on the extent of the shaking, it may take a while for them to dissipate.
Can moldy maple syrup be saved?
Don’t throw away your mouldy Maple Syrup! Our non-toxic mould solution allows you to save your syrup without compromising your health. Simply skim off the mould and heat your syrup to boiling. After skimming off any additional floaties or mould, allow it to cool again. Enjoy your Maple Syrup worry-free.
Why does my maple syrup taste like alcohol?
When syrup is not boiled at a sufficient temperature (less than 66º Brix), fermentation may occur in the container. This results in an unpleasant, spiked taste reminiscent of alcohol- but not in a good way. Always ensure your syrup is boiled correctly to prevent fermentation.
Is maple syrup good after 2 years?
To keep your maple syrup from spoiling, store it in a cool, dark place like a cupboard, refrigerator, or freezer. This will preserve the syrup for a year or more. Once you open the container, keep it in the refrigerator or freezer and consume it within a year of the opening date to ensure freshness.
Can I reboil my maple syrup?
If you’ve tried making your own homemade maple syrup, you may have wondered if you can reboil it to make it thicker. The answer is yes – it’s an easy fix. Simply reboil your maple syrup to achieve your desired consistency. Say goodbye to runny syrup and enjoy a thicker, richer taste.
Can I freeze maple syrup?
Did you know that maple syrup can be safely stored in the freezer for an indefinite amount of time? And here’s a fun fact: when frozen, maple syrup takes on a slushy consistency due to its sugar content. Keep your maple syrup fresh and ready to use by storing it in the freezer.
Which color of maple syrup is healthiest?
If you’re wondering which grade of maple syrup is best for your health, look no further than Grade A Dark. Not only is it delicious as a topping for pancakes or a natural sweetener for various recipes, but it also has a higher content of antioxidants and minerals than lighter grades. Consider making the switch to Grade A Dark for a healthier option.

Bobby Kelly is a bartender at Molly Magees, an Irish pub in Mountain View. He’s been working there for two years and has developed a following among the regulars. Bobby is known for his friendly demeanor and great drink specials. He loves interacting with customers and making them feel welcome. When he’s not at work, Bobby enjoys spending time with his friends and family.