Do Pickles Need to Be Refrigerated?
September 24, 2023
source: Melissa K. Norris
Have you ever found yourself pondering the age-old question: Do pickles need to be refrigerated, or can they be left out? Well, I sure have, and today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of pickle preservation to find the answers.
Now, let’s get straight to the point. Open jars of pickled food should always be refrigerated—unless you have a root cellar or other storage space that stays at a constant 34° to 40°F. This is because refrigeration helps maintain the quality and safety of your beloved pickles.
But what about unopened jars of pickles? Do they need to chill in the fridge too? The answer depends on whether they are pasteurized and sold cold or pasteurized and sealed. If you have unpasteurized pickles that are sold cold, these should be stored in the refrigerator right from the get-go. On the other hand, unopened jars that have been pasteurized and sealed can be kept in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to dive into them.
Now, let’s talk about how long you can leave pickles out on the counter. The golden rule is no more than two hours. Beyond that, pickles’ texture can start to change, and warm temperatures can make them soften, causing them to lose that delightful crunch we all love. So, if you want to keep your pickles crisp and delicious, make sure to keep them in a cold environment, like the refrigerator.
Refrigeration not only preserves the texture but also prevents the growth of mold and yeast. So, when in doubt, chill those pickles!
But what about freezing pickles? It’s generally not recommended. Freezing and then defrosting can cause them to become soft and mushy, which is a far cry from the crispness we desire in a good pickle. So, if you’ve ever thought about using the freezer as a backup storage option for pickles, think again.
Now, let’s address a common question: Does storage differ for canned pickles versus store-bought ones? The good news is that they should be stored in the same way—whether homemade or store-bought, pickles should be kept in a cool and dark place until you open them. Once the seal is broken, it’s time to introduce them to the friendly confines of your refrigerator.
The great pickle debate has been put to rest. Pickles, once opened, should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain their texture, flavor, and safety. Unopened jars can be kept in a cool, dark place unless they’re unpasteurized and sold cold, in which case they should be refrigerated right away. Remember, when it comes to pickles, keeping them in a cold environment not only ensures their crunchiness but also keeps mold and yeast at bay. So, go ahead and savor those pickles without a worry in the world!