Do you have jars of olives in your fridge that you never seem to use? Have you ever wondered if they’re still good to eat or if you should just throw them away? In this article, we’ll show you how to check if you have any unwanted olives that need to be tossed.

Check the expiry date

The first step in determining if your olives are still good is to check the expiry date.

Most olives have a shelf life of two to three years from the date they were packed, so if they’ve been sitting in your fridge for longer than that, it’s time to toss them. Expiry dates can usually be found on the label or the lid of the jar.

Look and smell

If your olives are within their expiry date, the next step is to inspect them carefully. Look for any signs of mold or discoloration. If there are any white, green or black spots on the olives, they’re likely no longer good to eat.

Also, take a whiff of the olives. If they have a sour or off smell, they’re probably spoiled.

Taste test

If your olives look and smell fine, the next step is to taste them. Take one olive and try it. If it tastes sour, bitter or just generally unpleasant, you should toss the rest of the jar.

Check for botulism

While rare, it’s important to be aware of botulism when dealing with olives. Clostridium botulinum is a type of bacteria that can grow in improperly stored olives and produce a toxin that can cause botulism.

Symptoms of botulism include dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking, and paralysis. If you’re unsure about the safety of your olives, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw them away.

Make something delicious

If your olives pass the above tests and are still good to eat, why not put them to use? One easy way to use up a jar of olives is to make a tapenade. Simply blend olives, olive oil, garlic, capers, and lemon juice in a food processor until smooth.

Spread it on sandwiches, use it as a dip, or mix it into pasta for a burst of flavor.

Finding ways to use up olives

If tapenade isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to use up a jar of olives. Add them to salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes for a salty kick. Make a Greek-inspired dip with chopped olives, feta cheese, and Greek yogurt.

Stuff pitted olives with cream cheese or goat cheese for a quick and easy appetizer.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to check if you have any unwanted olives, you can make an informed decision about whether to eat them or toss them.

Remember to always check the expiry date, look and smell for any signs of spoilage, taste test, and be aware of the risks of botulism. If your olives are still good, why not use them in a delicious recipe and enjoy their distinct flavor?.