Monday, April 15, 2013

TAKING STOCK...USE IT, OR TOSS IT !

                                   We all keep a stock of  baking needs and canned goods.
                     Knowing when to toss out some of those items, even our canned soups,
                     is always a mystery to most of us. Following are answers to
                     most common questions.

                                    Baking Soda, and Baking Powder, should be good for 6
                     months after it has been opened. Baking Soda can be tested to see if it
                     is still "active", by putting 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 2 teaspoons
                     vinegar, [ it should bubble immediately] With baking powder 1 teaspoon
                     in 1/2 cup hot water. It also should re-act in the same way as previously
                     stated.
                                    Brown Rice also is good for only 6 months. Because it is richer
                     in oil than white rice, it is likely to turn rancid. Store in an air tight container.

                                   Nuts of every kind should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry
                     place. Stored in an air tight container for up to 6 months, or can be frozen
                     for up to 1 year and still retain their flavor.

                                    Oils become rancid quickly. Keep away from heat  and light.
                      If the oils are  used frequently it will last for 3 months. Unopened oils can
                      stay on your shelf for 6 months.

                                    Peanut butter will last 6 months after opening. Natural peanut
                      butter should be stored in refrigerator.

                                     Flour keeps for a year, the exception is Wheat flour, unless tightly
                       sealed and kept in the refrigerator or frozen, should be used within 6 months.

                                    Canned goods, high acids ones, like  fruits will keep for 18
                        months. Lower acid ones, like meat, fish,  and vegetables  can safely be stored
                        for 2 to 5 years.

                                    Sugar if stored away from moisture and sealed a  proper
                        container will last for 2 years.Brown sugar should be used in 6 months.
                        Honey can be kept for 2 years.
                       
     
                       That is all for today friends, this is Jenny

         

6 comments:

  1. So where were you a couple of weeks ago when I baked and my cookies came out flat? LOL! Decided to look at the expiration dates on my baking soda/powder. Yikes! Both had expired. I'm embarrassed to tell you that one had expired in 2009! *head hung in shame* The baking soda (yellow box, right?) I go through quickly because I use it for cleaning also. The red can? Not so much!

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    Replies
    1. It is amazing how time "flies". I had flat yeast before, because I didn't check the date. 2009......yes, I would say expired.

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  2. I'll be sure Mrs. Chatterbox reads this.

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  3. Good info. I never understood the refrigerated peanut butter thing but it makes sense...thats just the natural stuff though right...my skippy is ok in a cupboard?

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    Replies
    1. Only the Natural Peanut Butter has to be refrigerated, because the oil separates.
      Thanks for visiting.

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