What to Do if You Find Mold in Your Maple Syrup

It’s pancake morning, you grab the maple syrup and spot something fuzzy floating on top. Gross. But is moldy maple syrup actually dangerous? And can you just scoop it out, boil the syrup, and keep using it?

While maple syrup is naturally resistant to spoilage thanks to its high sugar content, mold can still develop under certain conditions. Here's what you need to know about maple syrup mold, what to do if you find it, and how to prevent it in the future.

Why Does Maple Syrup Grow Mold?

Despite being low in moisture and high in sugar two qualities that make it less prone to spoilage maple syrup isn’t immune to mold. Exposure to air, warmth, and moisture (especially after opening) can create just enough of a window for certain molds to grow.

The most common culprit is a type of fungus that thrives even in sweet, syrupy environments. If the bottle isn't sealed tightly or has been left unrefrigerated after opening, you might eventually see that telltale layer of fuzz.

Can You Just Skim It and Boil It?

It’s a common home remedy: skim off the moldy layer, boil the syrup, and pour it back in the bottle. But food safety experts urge caution and for good reason.

Here’s why that method doesn’t guarantee safety:

• Boiling doesn’t kill all mold spores. Some fungi are heat-resistant, especially in a sugary solution.

• Mold can release mycotoxins. These invisible, toxic compounds aren’t destroyed by boiling and can make you sick.

• Vulnerable groups are at higher risk. Children, pregnant people, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to foodborne illness.

• It won’t taste right. Even if it seems safe, the flavor and texture are often altered beyond repair.

Bottom line: if you see mold in your maple syrup, the safest move is to toss it.

The Best Way to Store Maple Syrup

To avoid throwing away your favorite amber nectar, focus on prevention. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerate after opening. Even pure maple syrup needs to be refrigerated once opened to prevent mold growth.

• Use airtight containers. Keep the lid tightly closed and consider transferring syrup to a clean, glass container if the original bottle isn’t airtight.

• Keep it in a cool, dark place. For unopened bottles, a pantry is fine just avoid heat or sunlight.

• Freeze for long-term storage. Maple syrup won’t freeze solid due to its sugar content, but keeping it in the freezer can dramatically extend its shelf life.

According to the USDA, pure maple syrup can last up to a year in the fridge after opening and even longer in the freezer.

How to Tell If It’s Still Good

Besides visible mold, here are other signs your syrup may have gone bad:

• Off smell or sour odor

• Unusual texture or separation

• Strange or bitter taste

If in doubt, don’t risk it. A new bottle of syrup costs far less than a trip to the doctor.

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