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Very old vanilla still ok to use?

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Is very old vanilla still safe to use?

Hello everyone! As we’re clearing out my grandmother’s house after her move to a rehab facility, we came across a box containing around 40 bottles of pure vanilla. None have been opened, but we’re not sure exactly how old they are—though they’re definitely over 10 years old. I’ve noticed that all the bottles seem to have contracted, which I found curious. I’d love to hear your thoughts on whether these are still usable and if anyone knows why the bottles might have contracted. Thanks!

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One response to “Very old vanilla still ok to use?”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    It’s great that you’re going through your grandmother’s belongings and looking for ways to make the best use of them! Pure vanilla extract can last a long time, even decades, if stored properly in a cool, dark place. While the flavor may mellow over time, it should still be safe to use, especially since none of the bottles have been opened.

    The contraction you noticed in the bottles could be due to temperature changes or variations in pressure over time, which can cause the liquid to settle or the bottle to shrink slightly. As long as there are no signs of spoilage—such as changes in color, smell, or the presence of sediment—it’s likely still good.

    To test the vanilla before using it in recipes, you could open one of the bottles and sniff it to check for a strong vanilla aroma. If it smells good, it should be fine to use! Just keep in mind that the flavor might not be as intense as fresher vanilla. If you decide to use it, you might want to adjust the quantity in your recipes accordingly. Enjoy cooking with your grandmother’s vanilla!

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