Frequently Asked Questions - E.D.SMITH®
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Frequently Asked Questions

Jams & Spreads

How do I read the date code on the jar?

Our products are printed with a lot code situated on either the lid or shoulder of the jar between the cap and the label. The following is an example on how to read the coding:

4021*08:20 
This is the year it was made. 4 stands for the year 2014.
This number represents the julian calendar* date the product was made. 021 stands for Jan 21.
This number represents the time of day the product was made. We use the 24-hour clock. This product was made at 8:20 a.m.
   

* What is a julian calendar date?

The days of the year are numbered consecutively (see examples below):

  • January 1st is 001
  • January 31st is 031
  • February 3rd is 034

How long can I keep an unopened jar of jam or spread in my cupboard?

For best quality and freshness, we recommend that our jams be used within 18 months of production and our spreads be used within 12 months of production. Although the products do not spoil after this time when unopened, freshness is lost. Once the jar has been opened, it must be refrigerated.

How long can I keep a jar of jam in the fridge?

Once a jar is opened, we recommend it be refrigerated for freshness and quality. After each opening, the product becomes exposed to mold and yeast spores that exist in the air. It’s a good practice to always use clean utensils to take the product out of the jar to discourage spoilage. Shelf life cannot be determined for an opened product.

Where can I buy your jams, spreads and/or No Sugar Added spreads in Canada?

Currently, our products are available in all major grocery chain stores. If you find that a product is not on the shelf, at the store where you normally shop, we suggest that you ask the store manager and let them know you are interested in purchasing our product if it can be made available.

Where can I buy your More Fruit spread/preserves in the USA?

We manufacture our E.D.SMITH® More Fruits spreads and preserves specifically for Costco USA on a rotational basis and, therefore, they may not be available in stores all the time. Costco stores have asked that members place a written request with their Customer Service Desk if our products are not currently available.

Can I use the lemon spread as a filling for cookies and tarts?

Yes, our lemon spread is delicious when used as a filling for baked cookies and tarts!

Pie Fillings

How do I read the best before date on E.D.SMITH® Pie Fillings?

All E.D.SMITH® Pie Fillings manufactured since 2009 have a best used by date stamped on the can end.

I like to use the pie recipe on the can of pumpkin pie filling. Can I use 2% milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, 2% milk, whipping cream or even 1% milk may be used in place of evaporated milk for this recipe. It is recommended that you use slightly less than called for in the recipe as results will vary. Note: There will be slight differences in the texture and flavour of the pie. For best results, we recommend that you use evaporated milk. See our other recipes available using E.D.SMITH® Pure Pumpkin and E.D.SMITH® Pumpkin Pie Filling.

I would like to make tarts instead of a pie with the pumpkin pie filling. How long would I bake the tarts for?

Tarts are delicious using E.D.SMITH® Pumpkin Fillings. Bake for 6 minutes at 425ºF (220ºC) and another 16-18 minutes at 375ºF (190ºC). This is a guideline only, as individual ovens may vary.

  • Tip 1: Please keep an eye on the tarts when baking as all ovens vary.
  • Tip 2: One can of pumpkin pie filling will make 12 - 3” (7.5 cm) tarts.
  • Tip 3: Use an air bake sheet under the tart tray for best results.

Freezing pumpkin tarts.

Let the tarts cool after baking and freeze them in a well-sealed container for up to 6 weeks for optimum freshness.

Can I freeze the leftover E.D.SMITH® Pure Pumpkin?

Yes, E.D.SMITH® Pure Pumpkin (unmixed) may be frozen in an airtight container and is best if used within three months. Thaw the frozen pumpkin in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.

How long can I refrigerate the leftover pumpkin pie filling or pure pumpkin?

After opening, the product becomes exposed to mould and yeast spores that exist in the air. It's a good practice to always use clean utensils to take the product out of the can to discourage spoilage. Shelf life cannot be determined for an opened product.

Can you freeze a pumpkin pie?

Yes, a pumpkin pie must be baked prior to freezing. We recommend that the pie be frozen in an airtight container or freezer wrap and used within 6 weeks for optimum freshness.

Can I Freeze A Fruit Filled Pie?

Yes, for best quality, we recommend fruit pies go unbaked into the freezer. Freeze for up to 6 weeks for optimum freshness. Bake from frozen for 40-50 minutes at 400ºF (200ºC). This is a guideline only, as individual ovens may vary. Check out our many recipes using pie fillings.

Can I make tarts with your fruit fillings, and how long would I bake them for?

Yes, our fruit fillings are a delicious choice for tarts and are ready to use. There are two options for making tarts.

  • Option 1: Pre-bake the pastry and then fill the tarts with your favourite E.D.SMITH® fruit pie filling.
  • Option 2: Fill an unbaked tart with your favourite fruit filling. Bake at 425ºF (220ºC) for approximately 8-12 minutes until the pastry is golden brown.

Tip: Please keep an eye on the tarts when baking as all ovens vary.

Freezing Fruit Filled Tarts

Let the tarts cool after baking and then you can freeze them in a well-sealed container for up to 6 weeks for optimum freshness.

Availability

Where can I buy Saucemaker Sauces?

Saucemaker sauces are part of a full line of ready-to-use sauces manufactured for the Foodservice Industry only and not available for retail sale.

Visit E.D.SMITH Food Service