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How Long Does Gel Food Coloring Last In The Fridge?

As foodies, we often find ourselves in a dilemma between the desire to create new recipes and the dread of having our creations turn out anything other than perfect.

This sense of trepidation is even more evident when attempting to produce and incorporate vibrant colors into meals; especially when these dyes are required to remain stable for any extended period of time.

One type that falls under this category is gel food coloring— but just how long does it last in the fridge?

How safe and effective would it be if used months after being purchased?

In this blog post, I’ll be taking an in-depth look at what goes into storing gel food coloring properly so that you can make informed decisions on your next masterpiece.

What’s Gel Food Coloring?

Gel food coloring is a type of food coloring that is thick and concentrated.

It is usually sold in small tubes or bottles and can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets.

Gel food coloring is available in a wide range of colors, including both natural and artificial hues.

Gel food coloring is ideal for tinting icing, frosting, and dough because it doesn’t thin out the consistency like liquid food coloring can.

It is also less likely to cause streaks or blotches when used in these applications.

When using gel food coloring, start with a small amount and add more as needed until you achieve the desired shade.

How Long Does Gel Food Coloring Last In The Fridge?

If you’re using gel food coloring to tint frostings or other desserts, it’s important to know how long it will last in the fridge.

Unopened containers of gel food coloring will last for 2-3 years in the fridge.

Once opened, however, the gel food coloring should be used within 6-8 months.

When stored properly in the fridge, gel food coloring can last a long time.

However, once opened, it’s best to use it up within 6-8 months.

This is because the color can start to fade and become less vibrant over time.

If you want your desserts to have that bright, beautiful color, make sure to use fresh gel food coloring.

Can You Freeze Gel Food Coloring?

Yes, you can freeze gel food coloring.

In fact, freezing gel food coloring is a great way to extend its shelf life.

Gel food coloring typically lasts for about two years, but if you freeze it, it can last for up to four years.

Here’s how to freeze gel food coloring: first, make sure the gel food coloring is in an airtight container.

Then, place the container in the freezer.

Once the gel food coloring is frozen, it will last for up to four years.

One thing to keep in mind when freezing gel food coloring is that it may change color slightly after being frozen.

This is normal and won’t affect the quality of the gel food coloring.

How To Store Gel Food Coloring?

Gel food coloring is a great way to add color to your food.

It is also very concentrated, so a little goes a long way.

Gel food coloring will last for several years if it is stored properly.

The best way to store gel food coloring is in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Be sure to label the container with the date so you know when it was purchased.

When storing gel food coloring, be sure to keep it away from any light sources as this can cause the color to fade.

If you are not using all of the gel food coloring at once, you can freeze it in small portions.

When you are ready to use it, thaw it out in the refrigerator overnight before using it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gel food coloring can last anywhere from 2-3 days to several weeks in the fridge, depending on how it is stored.

Freezing gel food coloring can also extend its shelf life.

When storing gel food coloring, be sure to keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

How Long Does Gel Food Coloring Last In The Fridge?

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Shelf Life
Servings 1 Serving

Ingredients
  

  • Gel food coloring
  • Air-tight containers or Ziplock bags
  • Labels and markers

Instructions
 

  • Store your product in an labelled container in a cool, dark place like the pantry or fridge.
  • If your food is frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge before cooking.
  • Make sure to look for signs that your food has gone bad before eating it.
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