How to Keep Raisins From Drying Out

Raisins remain moist if stored properly.

Raisins are grapes that have been dried to a point that prevents them from spoiling, creating a product that remains shelf-stable for a period of months. However, storing raisins requires a modest amount of diligence. If they absorb too much moisture from their surroundings, they can become moldy and spoil. More commonly moisture will evaporate from the raisins, leaving them hard and unpleasant to eat. Proper storage is the key to keeping raisins plump and moist.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy duty plastic bag, mason jar or other food-safe container

Instructions

1. Reseal the raisins' package if it is resealable, and carefully squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the last inch.

2. Transfer the raisins from their original package if it isn't resealable to a heavy-duty plastic bag, mason jar, or other sealable food safe container.

3. Refrigerate the raisins for six months to a year, or freeze the raisins for up to two years. Frozen raisins will thaw quickly at room temperature, requiring no special handling.

Tips & Warnings

• Store the raisins in a cool, dark place if you can't find space for them in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to six months if you are diligent about squeezing out excess air after each use. If you're storing your raisins in a rigid container, consider bagging them as well to minimize their exposure to the air.

• Buy the freshest raisins you can find from a retailer that has a high turnover. The fresher they are, the better the shelf life will be. It's better to buy small quantities frequently than to buy a large quantity once in a while. Ideally, buy only as many as you'll use in the next four-to-six weeks.

• If your raisins do become dried out, plump them in a small amount of hot or boiling water before using them in your favorite recipes.

• If you're storing your raisins at room temperature, check them before adding them to a recipe. Sometimes insects will hatch in the raisins while they're in storage. If you find insects in your raisins, discard them and buy new raisins. Wash and sanitize the container before it's used again.

References

• USDA Household Commodity Fact Sheet: Raisins, Seedless
• National Raisin Company: Raisin Trivia
• World's Healthiest Foods: Raisins
• Vine Tree Orchards: Golden Raisins
• Reader's Digest: How to Keep Foods From Spoiling