I have some Huang Jing at home that I can't finish for a while. Normally, we put things we can't finish in the refrigerator. But Huang Jing is a traditional Chinese medicine. Can it be stored in the refrigerator?
Can Huang Jing be stored in the refrigerator?
Yes, it can.
Huang Jing is a medicinal herb derived from the rhizomes of plants in the Polygonatum genus. It is a type of rhizome-based traditional Chinese medicine that contains a large amount of moisture and is prone to mold and spoilage. The low temperature environment in the refrigerator can inhibit the growth of microorganisms and to a certain extent prevent or slow down the mold growth of Huang Jing. Therefore, both fresh and processed Huang Jing can be stored in the refrigerator.
Can Huang Jing be stored in the refrigerator for years and still be edible?
Fresh Huang Jing
For fresh Huang Jing, it cannot be stored in the refrigerator for years. Generally, it can only be stored for about a week before it may start to rot and spoil. Even under freezing conditions, the longer it is stored, the more nutrients it loses. Therefore, it is not recommended to continue consuming fresh Huang Jing that has been stored in the refrigerator for years.
Processed Huang Jing
For processed Huang Jing, if it has been stored in the refrigerator for years without showing signs of white mold or mold spots, it can still be consumed. However, if mold growth has occurred, it should not be consumed as it may have adverse effects on the body.
How long can Huang Jing be stored in the refrigerator?
Fresh Huang Jing
About a week.
If it is fresh Huang Jing that has not been dried, it can generally be stored for about a week. Due to its high moisture content, it is prone to rot and spoilage. Therefore, it is recommended to consume fresh Huang Jing as soon as possible.
Processed Huang Jing
About 1 year.
Processed Huang Jing is usually prepared with alcohol, which makes it more moist and sweet. Therefore, it is more prone to mold and spoilage. Generally, processed Huang Jing can be stored for about 1 year. If stored properly, it can be stored for 2-3 years or even longer.
What should be noted when storing Huang Jing in the refrigerator?
Tightly wrapped
Huang Jing has its own unique aroma. If it is not tightly wrapped, it may affect the taste of other foods in the refrigerator and the Huang Jing itself.
Freezing storage
If Huang Jing needs to be stored for a long time, it is recommended to place it in the freezer compartment. The temperature in the freezer compartment is lower, which can better inhibit the growth of bacteria and freeze the moisture. As a result, the storage time will be longer.
Other methods of storing Huang Jing
1. Sun-drying fresh Huang Jing. Wash the fresh Huang Jing, cut it into thick slices, and dry it in the sunlight. Then, store it in a cool and dry place.
2. Store processed Huang Jing in a cool and dry place. Put the processed Huang Jing in a container, seal it well, and store it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
