Expert: Carol Schlitt - 9/27/2006

Question
I bought a jar of olives a few months ago.  I just noticed that they have a ring of white around the top of the liquid they are in.  They also have added habanero hot peppers that came in the product.  Do you know what the white is and I suppose I should throw them away...what do you think?  Thank you very much.  

Answer
Hi Donna,

I assume you've had this jar in the refrigerator -- correct?  If so, the white is probably solidified fat from the olives.

If this is an unopened jar of olives -- I don't know what could be causing the ring.  I would suggest that you contact the manufacturer/packer for an explanation and suggestion on what to do with the product.

FYI -- Unopened cans and jars should be stored in a cool, dry place up to one year. Once opened, canned olives should be removed from the can to a glass container and covered in the canning brine. Refrigerate and use within two weeks. Bulk olives in oil should be stored in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to two months. Discard any that become soft.

Hope this helps.

Carol