Question about jarred garlic

[mskay]

I have some of that minced garlic in a jar that you keep in the frig. I have no idea how long it's been in there. We've lived here about 2 1/2 years so no longer than that. Anyway, I was using it today and noticed it said sell by feb 9. Well obviously I bought it before then but does anyone know how long it's good for after opened. I guess I should be posting this on the cooking board, but I used it for tonight's spinach dip, so if I need to start again, I need to get to the store soon. Normally not overly cautious about dates, but the peanut butter scare has had me leary over everything. TIA!

 

[The Mystery Machine]

From this site it looks like 3 months is the limit on the garlic in oil. Interesting info....
http://thegarlicstore.com/index.cgi/cookingprep.htm

Storing
First a word of caution: NEVER allow garlic in oil to sit at room temperature. It is a hotbed for botulism. Keep it refrigerated or frozen at all times.
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[mskay]

OMG! I would have never known that! Hopefully the bite I had is okay. I'll definitely go get some more for tonight!
Thanks!

 

[Nicolepa]

I think this is refering to when you put fresh garlic into oil. I'm pretty sure if you buy the container of it already minced in oil it is much, much longer. I just looked at my bottle from Costco and it says Use By March 2008. I know it was bought in January 2007. I have never gotten sick from using it longer than 3 months, so my guess it there is something in it to make it stable.

OK, my jars says oil, garlic and phsophoric acid. So I'm guessing the acid allows it to have a longer shelf life.