identification of bad jaggeryImage Credit source: Getty Images
Jaggery is no less than a boon for health, its nature is hot. Therefore, eating it in the winter season is considered more beneficial. Apart from this, many delicious food items are made from jaggery and gram in this season. It is also used to make halwa, sweets and kheer. Jaggery is considered a healthy option instead of sugar. Because many types of minerals and vitamins are found in it along with sugar. Calories, sugar, potassium, magnesium, manganese, fructose and glucose are present in jaggery. Along with this, it is said to be a good source of iron.
The quality of jaggery also needs to be better. Jaggery is mostly available loose without packet. In such a situation, its manufacturing and expiry date is written on the packaged jaggery. But when jaggery is taken open from outside, the question arises whether it can have expiry date i.e. it can get spoiled. Let us know what changes are seen in jaggery when it spoils.
signs of spoilage of jaggery
change in color of jaggery
Fresh jaggery usually appears golden or light brown in colour. If the color of jaggery becomes too dark and appears black with time, it may be due to chemical process or keeping it for a long time. Due to this the taste may also get spoiled.
moldy appearance
Due to moisture, fungus or white-green mold may develop in the jaggery. If something like this is visible in jaggery, then it should not be eaten at all. This jaggery can get spoiled. Because eating moldy jaggery can have adverse effects on health. This may cause digestive problems, allergies or infection.
Eating jaggery is beneficial (Credit: Getty Images)
to be sticky
Jaggery is normally hard and solid. But if it comes in contact with moisture or becomes too old then it starts becoming sticky. Which means that bacteria and fungus are growing in the jaggery. In such a situation, jaggery may start melting, hence sticky jaggery is not fit for consumption.
Changes in taste and aroma
The taste of fresh jaggery is sweet and it also gives a sweet smell when eaten. But if the taste of jaggery becomes slightly sour or has strange bitterness, then it can go bad. Therefore such jaggery should not be eaten. It may also give off a strange smell.
How long does jaggery stay good?
If jaggery is stored properly like keeping it in an airtight container and away from moisture, it can remain good for 6 months to 1 year. In some cases it may last longer than this. But as time passes, its nutrients and taste start decreasing. Apart from this, jaggery can spoil quickly in hot and humid weather.
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What is the correct way to store jaggery?
Store jaggery in an airtight container. Apart from this, keep it in a cool and dry place and keep it away from sunlight. Keeping it in the refrigerator is also a good option, especially in the summer season. Keep jaggery protected from moisture, water and steam. Always buy fresh jaggery while purchasing. Always buy it from a trusted shop because adulterated jaggery is also available in the market these days.
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