While unopened Sunsweet dried plums can sit in the pantry for months, the story changes once the package is compromised. The low moisture content that gives dried fruit its long shelf life is no longer a guaranteed preservative once exposed to air and humidity. Sunsweet explicitly recommends refrigeration after opening certain varieties, like their Amaz!n Prunes, for best quality.
Why Refrigeration Is Recommended for Opened Packages
Dried plums, also known as prunes, have had most of their moisture removed, which prevents mold and spoilage. However, once the package is opened, they become susceptible to several environmental factors. The primary reasons to refrigerate after opening include:
- Preserving Quality and Texture: The cool, consistent temperature of a refrigerator helps maintain the plums' soft, moist, and chewy texture. Room temperature exposure can cause them to become harder and drier over time.
- Extending Shelf Life: An opened bag of dried plums can last for 3 to 6 months in the pantry, but refrigeration can extend this to up to a year or more. This is particularly useful for those who don't eat them often.
- Preventing Moisture and Mold: If you live in a hot or humid climate, storing dried plums in a cool, dry place like the refrigerator is especially important. It prevents the fruit from absorbing excess moisture, which could lead to mold growth.
- Keeping Pests Away: An opened package of dried fruit can attract pantry pests. An airtight container, combined with refrigeration, provides an extra layer of protection against unwelcome visitors.
Best Practices for Storing Dried Plums
To get the most out of your Sunsweet dried plums, follow these storage tips:
- Unopened Packages: An unopened bag of Sunsweet dried plums should be kept in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry or cupboard. They can last for up to 18 months from the production date, so always check the 'Best Before End' date on the package.
- Opened Packages (Pantry): If you prefer not to refrigerate, immediately transfer the remaining plums to a truly airtight container. A sealed glass jar or heavy-duty resealable bag is ideal. Make sure to press out as much air as possible. Store this container in a cool, dry, dark cupboard.
- Opened Packages (Refrigerator): For maximum freshness, transfer opened plums to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This is the best method for preserving their soft texture and extending their shelf life significantly.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For long-term storage, dried plums can be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and they can last for a year or even longer. Thaw them at room temperature before eating.
Comparison Table: Storage Methods for Dried Plums
| Storage Method | After Opening | Best For | Typical Shelf Life Extension | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pantry (Original Bag) | Not Recommended | Short-term use (days/weeks) | Poor | Risk of drying out, pest exposure. |
| Pantry (Airtight Container) | Yes | Short-term use (months) | Moderate | Keeps for 3-6 months. Risk of texture change. |
| Refrigerator (Airtight Container) | Yes (Recommended) | Maximizing freshness and quality | Excellent | Keeps for 6-12+ months. Preserves texture. |
| Freezer (Airtight/Freezer Bag) | Yes | Long-term storage (1+ year) | Exceptional | Keeps indefinitely. Requires thawing. |
Potential Issues with Improper Storage
Storing dried plums improperly can lead to a few issues, though they are generally very resilient:
- Drying and Hardening: If exposed to air, the remaining moisture will evaporate, and the plums will become hard and less palatable. While still safe to eat, their texture will be compromised.
- Sugaring: Over time, the natural sugars in the plums can crystallize on the surface, creating a white, grainy appearance. This is not a sign of spoilage, and they are still safe to eat, but it can affect the texture.
- Mold Growth: While rare due to the low moisture content, mold can grow on dried fruit if it is exposed to significant humidity. If you see any signs of mold, discard the plums immediately.
- Rancidity (if oils are present): Some brands of dried fruit use oil as a processing aid. While Sunsweet dried plums generally do not contain significant oils, any fats present could become rancid over a very long period, which would produce an off-flavor.
Conclusion
To definitively answer the question, "do Sunsweet dried plums need to be refrigerated?"—yes, for best quality and long-term storage after opening, refrigeration is the recommended method. While storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry is a viable short-term option, the refrigerator will best preserve their soft, delicious texture and extend their shelf life significantly. Ultimately, using a proper airtight container is the most crucial step, no matter which storage location you choose. Following these simple storage guidelines ensures that every handful of Sunsweet dried plums is as fresh and satisfying as the first.
For additional details on fruit preservation, see the USDA's guidelines on storing dried fruits: Ask USDA: How long are dried fruits safe?
