Analysis of the storage and shelf life of homemade mooncakes
The storage period of mooncakes is closely related to the type of filling. Mooncakes with soft fillings, due to their high water content, usually have a shorter shelf life, typically maintaining their best flavor for about 7 to 10 days. In contrast, mooncakes with hard fillings have lower moisture content and can be stored for about one month, with a relatively longer shelf life.
As for how to properly store homemade mooncakes, refrigeration is a common and effective method. Especially for mooncakes with soft crusts, due to their high moisture content and susceptibility to deterioration, it is recommended to place the mooncakes in the refrigerator along with their original packaging, taking them out one hour before consumption to ensure the taste. Other types of mooncakes can also be refrigerated in the same manner to extend their shelf life. However, it is important to note that while refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of mooncakes, it may somewhat affect their original flavor. The starch in mooncakes is softened during the baking process, but in a low-temperature environment, the softened starch will release moisture and gradually age, causing the mooncake to become hard and reducing its taste.
Regarding whether it is safe to consume mooncakes that have exceeded their shelf life, food safety experts strongly advise against it. Expired or moldy mooncakes may cause symptoms such as bloating, pain, vomiting, and more critically, they may contain harmful substances such as aflatoxins, posing a carcinogenic risk with prolonged ingestion and threatening health. Therefore, for health considerations, expired mooncakes should not be consumed.
