Condiments/Spreads
Processed fruit spread

JamShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

1 year (unopened)

Store unopened jars in a cool, dark, dry place. Once opened, jam must be refrigerated.

Refrigerator

6 months to 1 year (opened)

Always refrigerate opened jars of jam promptly to prevent spoilage. Keep the lid tightly sealed.

Freezer

1 year (for best quality)

While safe to freeze, the texture of jam may change upon thawing. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving headspace for expansion.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Mold growth (fuzzy white, green, or black spots)
  • Off-odor (sour, fermented, or yeasty smell)
  • Discoloration
  • Unusual texture (e.g., watery, slimy)
  • Fermentation (bubbles, alcohol smell)

Room Temperature Safety

The 2-hour rule applies to opened jam: Do not leave opened jam at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), discard after 1 hour.

40°F–140°F (4°C–60°C)

Unopened jam is shelf-stable at room temperature. Opened jam should be refrigerated promptly after use.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Always use clean utensils to scoop jam to prevent introducing contaminants.

2

Discard jam if mold appears, even if only on the surface, as toxins can spread throughout the product.

3

Ensure jars are properly sealed if home-canning jam.

Related Items

Comparisons

Jelly (opened)Similar storage guidelines to jam once opened.
Fridge
6 months to 1 year
Marmalade (opened)Similar storage guidelines to jam once opened.
Fridge
6 months to 1 year
Honey
Pantry
Indefinitely (for quality, safe indefinitely if stored properly)