If you’re like me, you have a cabinet full of spices that you never use. And if you’re like me, you also have no idea what the expiration dates on those spices are.
Well, today I’m going to focus on one specific spice: cream of tartar. This little-known ingredient is used in baking and in some cleaning products, but does it go bad? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the shelf life of cream of tartar and answer that question once and for all!
What does Cream of tartar do?
A cream of tartar is a white powder that is derived from the tartaric acid found in grapes. It has a variety of uses, but it is most commonly used as a leavening agent in baking. When combined with baking soda, it helps to produce carbon dioxide gas, which causes baked goods to rise. Cream of tartar is also sometimes used as a cleaning agent, and it can be added to food as a flavoring agent or preservative.
How long does cream of tartar last?
So, how long does cream of tartar last? The answer is: it depends. Cream of tartar that is sold in a sealed container will have a longer shelf life than cream of tartar that is sold in a bulk container. Additionally, cream of tartar that is stored in a cool, dark place will last longer than cream of tartar that is stored in a warm, humid place. Generally speaking, though, you can expect the cream of tartar to last for two to three years when it is properly stored.
How to store cream of tartar?
Of course, the shelf life of cream of tartar can be extended if you take proper care of it. One way to do this is to make sure that the container is always tightly sealed. Another way to extend the shelf life of cream of tartar is to keep it in the fridge. This will help to prevent the formation of clumps, which can shorten the shelf life of the spice.
So, there you have it! Now you know everything there is to know about the shelf life of cream of tartar. Remember, if you take proper care of this versatile spice, it can last for two to three years. So go ahead and use it in all of your baking recipes – your cakes and cookies will thank you!
How do you know if the Cream of tartar has gone bad?
There are a few signs that will tell you if the cream of tartar has gone bad. The first is that the color of the powder will change from white to yellow or brown. Additionally, the texture of the powder will become clumpy, and it may have an unpleasant odor. If you notice any of these changes, it’s best to discard the cream of tartar and buy a new container.
Do you have any other tips for extending the shelf life of spices? Let us know in the comments below!