Gelatine — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Gelatine should be odorless and colorless, coming in either leaf form or as a powder. It should dissolve cleanly in hot liquid without clumping. Verify the source if you prefer beef, pork, or fish-based gelatine for dietary reasons.

Do not use gelatine that smells off or fails to solidify properly, as this could indicate degradation. Properly stored gelatine should create a firm, smooth texture in recipes like jellies and mousses.

Gelatine should be stored in a cool, dry place in its original packaging. A pantry or cupboard is ideal to keep it fresh. Properly stored, gelatine can last up to a year.

Exposure to moisture can cause gelatine to clump and lose effectiveness. Avoid storing it near heat sources or in humid areas. Ensure the package is tightly sealed to maintain its quality and prevent contamination.

Gelatine can last for 1-2 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Once prepared, gelatine desserts should be refrigerated and consumed within 5-7 days.

Leftover gelatine can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, gelatine is a key ingredient for making jellies, mousses, panna cotta, and gummy candies. It can also be used to thicken sauces or stabilize whipped cream. Gelatine is often used in baking to help set fillings in pies or tarts.

Beyond cooking, gelatine has several practical uses. It can be used in DIY beauty treatments, such as creating a gelatine face mask that helps to tighten and rejuvenate the skin. Gelatine can also be used to strengthen nails when mixed with warm water and applied as a soak. In crafting, gelatine is sometimes used in photography to create traditional printing processes or in homemade glue for paper crafts. Additionally, gelatine can be used to clarify homemade broths or juices by trapping impurities as it sets, leaving behind a clear liquid.