When it comes to the contemporary food industry, there are few products as iconic and popular as Nutella – the popular chocolate spread that is used in all manner of applications.
However, even with all of our modern resources, there is still a lot that we do not know about the food we eat.
One such example is whether or not Nutella can go bad – a question that many people might not know the answer to.
So can Nutella go bad, and if so, what are the signs?
What Is Nutella?
Nutella is a popular spreadable chocolate made characterized by (and named for) its signature hazelnut flavor.
Popular as a filling for sandwiches, as well as an ingredient within confectionery, baking, ice cream making, and all manner of other applications, Nutella is without a doubt the most popular product of its kind on the market – and continues to remain a firm favorite today.
What Does It Taste Like?
As mentioned above, Nutella has a distinct hazelnut flavoring, which enhances the taste of the chocolate to make it even more rich, complex, and delicious.
Can Nutella Go Bad?
When it comes to Nutella, it is bound by the same shelf life issues that all food stuffs have. However Nutella has a longer shelf life than most products – potentially lasting as long as 12 months after opening when stored under the right conditions.
What Are The Signs That Nutella Has Gone Bad?
However, when Nutella does start to go bad, there are several signs you should be on the lookout for.
Mold Formation
One of the sure fire ways to tell that your Nutella has gone bad is if there are any signs of mold growth within the jar.
This is a sign that it has definitely gone bad, that it is no longer safe to eat, and that it should be disposed of immediately.
Change In Consistency
If there is any kind of consistency change within your Nutella, then this might be a sign that it has gone bad.
This is especially true if it has gone too hard or too runny – and either change in state could be an indication that it is no longer safe to eat.
Change In Color
A change in color could also be a sign that something is not right, and that the Nutella has gone bad.
This is generally when the Nutella has gone hard and white – sometimes a side effect of being stored in the refrigerator – and this can be a sign that you should not eat it, and dispose of it immediately.
How To Make Nutella Last Longer?
However, if you want to ensure that your Nutella lasts longer, and that you get as much use as possible from a jar, then there are certain methods you can use to make this happen.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
The first thing you should do is to keep the Nutella away from direct sunlight. This will keep it fresher for longer, and help to avoid any unwanted deterioration of the ingredients.
The best places to store Nutella are inside a cupboard or pantry, where they can remain shaded and cool.
Avoid Heat
You should also aim to keep them as cool and close to room temperature as possible. This will stop any changes in consistency, and help to keep it fresh for longer.
This means ensuring they remain out of direct sunlight, and that they are not kept near the oven during use.
Avoid The Refrigerator
While the refrigerator can be good in some instances – such as when you live in hot environments (or are experiencing hot weather) – however, generally speaking the refrigerator is a sure fire way to send the Nutella hard, white, and harder to eat.
It can also cause the consistency to be permanently changed by the cold – something that can send it bad before its designated time.
Seal It Properly
You should also make sure that you have properly sealed the jar after each use. This is the best way to stop oxygen and bacteria getting inside the jar, and this can make sure that the Nutella stays fresher for longer.
Can You Eat Nutella When It Is Bad?
It is not recommended for you to eat Nutella if it has either gone beyond its expiration date, or if you suspect that it has gone bad.
This is the same with any other food stuff, especially those containing dairy like Nutella.
What Are The Consequences?
Like any food gone bad, the consequences are sickness, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms.
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about Nutella, and whether or not it can go bad.
It is certainly true that Nutella is a popular product on the market – and one that is loved by countless people around the world.
However, as with any product, Nutella can still go bad, which is why it is important to store it properly, and follow the instructions for use on the jar.
So if you are looking to learn more about Nutella, and whether it can go bad, then be sure to refer to this handy guide. Something tells me you won’t regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we know a little more about Nutella, and whether or not it can go bad, it is now time for us to answer some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.
Is Nutella Expensive?
While Nutella is not considered expensive – at least in the great scheme of things – it is still more expensive than other, lesser known brands of spreadable chocolate.
Is Nutella Fattening?
Like most forms of chocolate, eating too much Nutella will indeed make you gain weight. It is also not great for your overall nutrition and health – potentially encouraging conditions like type 2 diabetes.
