On toast for breakfast or as a snack, the jam remains the little sweet pleasure appreciated by the French. Homemade or purchased in supermarkets, it consists of fruit and sugar.
In commerce, to be entitled to this designation, it must be manufactured with a minimum of 35 g of fruit per 100 g of finished product. Sugar is of capital importance because it will stop the development of bacteria causing white mold.
“It’s not serious, but not recommended”
Normally, we can therefore keep the jars for several months. If you notice the presence of mold when opening the jar, caution. If it is homemade jam, it means that it was poorly sterilized and air got inside.
So can we still consume it? “ Beyond the fact that it doesn’t look very appetizing, it doesn’t matter, but not recommended. It is better to remove the white film with a small spoon before consuming it. If it’s a homemade jam, you have to be extremely rigorous when making it. Sterilize the jars well, then keep them cool and consume them quickly », explains Corinne Fernandez, dietitian nutritionist in Paris.
This is valid if the mold is present on the surface and visible to the naked eye, but sometimes it can extend deep and in this case, you can expose yourself to substances that are not very recommended for your health. To avoid these molds, several reflexes must be adopted: manufacturing in the greatest possible hygiene possible with sterilization utensils in the case of homemade. Then we must ensure that close the jars tightly to prevent moisture from entering. It is also important to store the jam in the refrigerator to extend its lifespan. And if you do it yourself, one last piece of advice. “ In case of mold and doubt about its freshness, you can add sugar and cook it again. Then let it cool in a sterilized and closed container. And store it in the refrigerator », adds Corinne Fernandez. A good way to avoid taking any risks for your health.
Thanks to Corinne Fernandez, dietitian nutritionist in Paris Corinne Fernandez – Dietitian, expert and sports nutrition (corinne-fernandez-dieteticienne.com)
