Does Pez Candy Go Bad? A Definitive Guide
No, Pez candy does not truly expire in the sense of becoming unsafe to eat, but its quality can degrade over time. While unopened Pez will remain edible almost indefinitely, its flavor, texture, and color can change, especially if stored improperly.
The Sweet History of Pez
Pez, that iconic brick-shaped candy dispensed from whimsical character-topped dispensers, has a history as rich as its sugary composition. Originally created in Austria in 1927, Pez (short for PfeffErminZe, the German word for peppermint) was initially marketed as an alternative to smoking. Clever advertising and the introduction of fruit flavors shifted its focus, leading to its eventual success as a beloved children’s candy. The introduction of character dispensers in the 1950s cemented Pez’s place in pop culture history. Today, Pez dispensers are highly collectible, often fetching significant sums depending on their age and rarity.
Pez Ingredients: What’s Inside
Understanding Pez’s composition provides insight into its longevity. The ingredients are relatively simple:
- Sugar
- Corn Syrup
- Adipic Acid (for tartness)
- Hydrogenated Palm Kernel and Palm Oil
- Mono and Diglycerides (emulsifiers)
- Artificial Flavors
- Artificial Colors (including FD&C Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1)
The high sugar content acts as a natural preservative, inhibiting microbial growth. The presence of hydrogenated oils also contributes to its stability. The other components contribute to flavor, texture, and appearance, but are less significant in determining shelf life.
How Pez Deteriorates Over Time
While Pez doesn’t “go bad” in the sense of spoiling and becoming dangerous to consume, its quality can diminish. Several factors contribute to this degradation:
- Moisture: Excessive humidity can cause the candy to become sticky and lose its crispness. This can also lead to clumping within the dispenser.
- Temperature: High temperatures can cause the oils to separate, leading to a waxy texture and potential flavor changes.
- Light: Prolonged exposure to light can cause the artificial colors to fade, resulting in a less vibrant appearance.
- Air: Exposure to air can cause the candy to dry out, becoming brittle and potentially losing some of its flavor.
Proper Pez Storage: Maintaining Freshness
To maximize the shelf life and maintain the quality of your Pez candy, proper storage is crucial:
- Keep it Sealed: Store unopened packages in their original sealed packaging.
- Cool, Dry Place: Store Pez in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep Pez away from ovens, stoves, and other sources of heat.
- Airtight Containers: Once opened, store Pez in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption and drying out.
What to Look for: Signs of Age
Even with proper storage, Pez will eventually show signs of age. Be aware of these indicators:
| Sign | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Sticky Texture | Moisture Absorption |
| Waxy Texture | Oil Separation |
| Faded Color | Light Exposure |
| Brittle Texture | Drying Out |
| Loss of Flavor | Degradation of Flavor Compounds |
| Clumping | Moisture Absorption, improper storage |
Pez Shelf Life: Expectations and Reality
While there isn’t an expiration date printed on Pez packaging, here’s a general guideline for shelf life:
- Unopened: Unopened Pez stored properly can remain edible for several years, even beyond a “best by” date if one is present on the outer packaging of a multi-pack.
- Opened: Once opened, the quality of Pez will diminish more quickly. Aim to consume it within a year for optimal flavor and texture.
FAQs: Pez Candy and its Shelf Life
Can I get sick from eating old Pez?
No, eating old Pez is unlikely to make you sick. The high sugar content acts as a preservative, preventing bacterial growth. However, the taste and texture may be less appealing.
Does the flavor of Pez change over time?
Yes, the flavor of Pez can change over time. The artificial flavors can degrade, resulting in a less intense or slightly different taste.
How can I tell if my Pez is still good?
Check for signs of spoilage, such as a sticky or waxy texture, faded color, or an off-putting odor. If the candy looks and smells normal, it is likely safe to eat, but taste it to ensure you still enjoy the flavor.
What is the best way to store Pez dispensers with candy in them?
Store Pez dispensers with candy in them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to preserve the quality of the candy and prevent the dispenser from becoming sticky.
Does freezing Pez extend its shelf life?
Freezing Pez is generally not recommended. While it might slow down some degradation processes, it can also cause changes in texture and flavor as moisture migrates within the candy.
Is it safe to eat Pez that has been exposed to air for a long time?
Pez exposed to air for a long time might become dry and brittle, but it is still generally safe to eat as long as it doesn’t show signs of mold or spoilage.
Do different Pez flavors have different shelf lives?
There isn’t significant evidence to suggest that different Pez flavors have significantly different shelf lives. The overall storage conditions are more crucial than the specific flavor.
What happens if Pez candy melts?
If Pez candy melts, it can become a sticky mess. While still edible, the texture will be significantly altered, and it may be difficult to remove from the dispenser.
Can Pez absorb odors from its surroundings?
Yes, Pez can absorb odors from its surroundings, especially if stored in an open container. Avoid storing it near strong-smelling substances.
Are there any preservatives in Pez candy?
Pez does not contain artificial preservatives, but its high sugar content naturally preserves it.
Does the color of Pez candy affect its shelf life?
The color itself does not directly affect the shelf life, but faded colors are a visual indication that the candy may have been exposed to light or other degrading conditions.
Can Pez become moldy?
While rare due to the high sugar content, Pez can theoretically become moldy if exposed to excessive moisture. If you see any signs of mold, discard the candy immediately.
Enjoy your Pez, store it wisely, and savor the sweet nostalgia!