Bloody Mary vodka infusions take the classic brunch cocktail to a whole new level. By infusing vodka with bold flavors like tomato, celery, and spices, we create a ready-to-go base that makes mixing up this savory drink faster and more flavorful. It’s a fun way to customize your Bloody Mary and impress guests with unique twists.
Originating from the iconic Bloody Mary cocktail, these infusions capture all the signature tastes in one bottle. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a herbaceous blend, infusing vodka lets us experiment with endless combinations. Plus, it’s perfect for batch prepping before a party or weekend brunch.
We’ll explore simple recipes that bring out the best in your vodka and elevate your Bloody Mary game. Get ready to shake up your cocktail routine with these vibrant, infused vodka ideas that deliver big on taste and convenience.
Ingredients for Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion Recipes
To craft the perfect Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion, selecting the right combination of ingredients is key. We focus on freshness and bold flavors that complement vodka and elevate your cocktail experience.
Base Vodka Selection
Choosing a high-quality vodka is the foundation for any infusion. We recommend opting for a neutral, smooth vodka to allow the essence of the infusion ingredients to shine through. Here are some key points for vodka selection:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Neutral flavored vodka |
| Proof | 80-100 proof (40-50% alcohol by volume) |
| Brand Preference | Premium or mid-range brands for smoothness |
| Quantity per batch | Typically 750 ml (one standard bottle) |
Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
Fresh produce injects vibrant flavor and aroma into our Bloody Mary vodka infusions. We focus on classic Bloody Mary components that marry well with vodka’s clean profile.
- Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes for sweetness and color
- Celery stalks: Crisp and aromatic for that signature Bloody Mary bite
- Fresh parsley: Adds a mild herbal note to balance acidity
- Cilantro: Optional for a fresh, citrusy twist
- Lemon and lime zest: Enhances brightness with natural citrus oils
Spices and Seasonings
Spices create the bold, savory layers that make infused vodka stand out. Use whole or freshly cracked spices to unlock the maximum flavor potential.
- Black peppercorns: Adds heat and aromatic complexity
- Smoked paprika: For subtle smokiness and mild sweetness
- Celery seed: Amplifies the celery flavor in the infusion
- Horseradish root: Provides pungent heat, key to a classic Bloody Mary kick
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper: Customize the spice level to taste
- Garlic cloves: Peeled and slightly crushed for pungency
Optional Garnishes
While garnishes are not infused directly, including them as part of your cocktail setup enhances presentation and flavor. Common garnishes to complement the infused vodka:
- Celery stick
- Pickled green beans or asparagus
- Cherry tomatoes on skewers
- Olives (green or black)
- Lemon or lime wedges
- Cooked bacon strips
By combining these carefully selected ingredients, we create richly flavored Bloody Mary Vodka Infusions that transform any cocktail into a memorable experience.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To create vibrant Bloody Mary vodka infusions, having the right tools and equipment is essential for developing bold flavors and ensuring a smooth infusion process. Below are the key items we rely on to craft perfect batches every time.
Infusion Containers
Choosing the right Infusion Containers sets the stage for seamless flavor extraction and easy handling. We recommend:
- Wide-mouth glass jars — provide ample space for fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices to infuse evenly.
- Mason jars — airtight seals maintain freshness and prevent oxidation during the infusion period.
- Large glass bottles — ideal for making bigger batches in one go.
The non-reactive nature of glass preserves the purity of the vodka’s flavor while allowing easy monitoring of the infusion’s progress.
| Container Type | Benefits | Recommended Size |
|---|---|---|
| Wide-mouth glass jar | Easy ingredient layering and stirring | 16–32 ounces |
| Mason jar | Airtight, prevents contamination | 16–48 ounces |
| Large glass bottle | Great for bulk infusion | 32–64 ounces |
Strainers and Filters
To achieve a crystal-clear infusion, proper straining and filtering equipment is crucial. We use:
- Fine mesh strainers — to remove larger solids like tomato chunks and celery pieces.
- Cheesecloth or nut milk bags — perfect for trapping finer particles, especially herbs and spices.
- Coffee filters — as a final filtration step for ultra-clear vodka infusions.
Using a combination of these tools ensures our Bloody Mary-infused vodka is smooth with no residual bits, allowing the bold flavors to shine through perfectly.
Storage Bottles
Once infused, storing your Bloody Mary vodka properly maintains its potency and freshness. Our top picks include:
- Dark glass bottles — protect against light degradation which can alter flavors.
- Airtight swing-top bottles — easy to reseal and pour without risking oxidation.
- Standard liquor bottles with cork or screw caps — convenient and readily available.
Mark your bottles with the infusion date and ingredients to keep track of your creations and enjoy them at their peak.
| Storage Option | Advantages | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Dark glass bottles | Light protection, longer shelf life | Long-term storage |
| Swing-top bottles | Resealable, mess-free pouring | Frequent use |
| Standard liquor bottles | Easy label and reuse | Quick storage and gifting |
With these essential tools ready, we can dive into crafting layered, flavorful Bloody Mary vodka infusions that impress every guest.
Preparation Steps
To create the perfect Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion, careful preparation is essential. We will guide you through precise steps to prep ingredients and combine them optimally for bold, vibrant flavors.
Prepping Vegetables and Herbs
Start by selecting the freshest vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor extraction. Here’s how to prep each key ingredient:
- Cherry Tomatoes: Rinse thoroughly, then halve or quarter to expose maximum surface area.
- Celery Stalks: Wash well. Cut into 2-inch pieces to release crisp, aromatic notes.
- Fresh Parsley and Cilantro: Rinse, shake dry, and gently bruise leaves to unlock essential oils.
- Optional Horseradish Root or Prepared Horseradish: Peel fresh root and slice thin, or measure prepared horseradish if preferred.
Proper prep of these components is critical. Bruising herbs and chopping vegetables finely intensifies infusion depth. Avoid pureeing or juicing to prevent cloudiness.
Measuring and Combining Ingredients
Precision in measurement ensures balanced flavor and consistent results. Use the following guide for a 750 ml vodka base:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| High-quality vodka | 750 ml | Neutral-flavored |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup (about 150 g) | Halved |
| Celery stalks | 2 medium stalks | Cut into 2-inch pieces |
| Fresh parsley | ½ cup loosely packed | Bruised leaves |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup loosely packed | Bruised leaves |
| Black peppercorns | 1 tsp | Whole |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | Ground |
| Horseradish | 1 tbsp | Fresh or prepared |
Combining Instructions:
- Place all prepped vegetables and herbs into a wide-mouth glass jar.
- Add spices directly on top to evenly distribute flavors.
- Pour vodka over ingredients, filling to top without air pockets.
- Seal jar tightly, gently shaking to mix and coat ingredients.
- Store in a cool dark place for 3 to 5 days, shaking daily to encourage infusion.
- After infusing, strain through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter to achieve crystal-clear vodka.
“Infusing vodka creates a foundation bursting with flavor — this step sets the stage for an unforgettable Bloody Mary.”_
By following these preparation steps carefully, our Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion will reach its full potential, enhancing any cocktail hour or brunch occasion.
Directions for Infusing Bloody Mary Vodka
Mastering the art of Bloody Mary Vodka infusion allows us to create a vibrant base rich with bold flavors. Below, we explore three reliable techniques to infuse vodka perfectly, each suited to different time frames and flavor intensity preferences.
Basic Infusion Method
This straightforward process lets the fresh ingredients slowly release their flavors into the vodka, resulting in a well-rounded infusion.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop tomatoes, celery, parsley, cilantro, and add spices like black peppercorns and smoked paprika exactly as outlined.
- Combine Ingredients: Place all prepped ingredients into a 750 ml wide-mouth glass jar.
- Add Vodka: Pour vodka over the ingredients until fully submerged.
- Seal and Store: Close the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.
- Infuse: Let the vodka steep for 3 to 5 days. Gently shake the jar once daily to agitate ingredients and enhance flavor extraction.
- Strain: Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to filter out solids for a smooth, clear infusion.
- Bottle: Transfer the strained vodka into a dark glass bottle for storage.
| Step | Detail | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Ingredients | Chop fresh vegetables and herbs | 10 minutes |
| Infuse Vodka | Submerge and seal | 3 to 5 days |
| Shake Daily | Gently agitate infusion | 1 minute/day |
| Strain & Bottle | Filter solids out | 5 minutes |
Cold Infusion Technique
For a cleaner taste and more controlled extraction, the cold infusion method is ideal. This also preserves the fresh vegetable brightness.
- Chill Vodka: Start by placing the vodka in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Add Ingredients: Combine prepped fresh vegetables and spices into a jar.
- Pour Cold Vodka: Add the chilled vodka directly over ingredients.
- Seal & Refrigerate: Close jar tightly and place in the fridge.
- Infuse: Keep refrigerated for 5 to 7 days, gently shaking daily.
- Strain & Serve: Strain using cheesecloth for a remarkably fresh and crisp Bloody Mary vodka base.
Hot Infusion Technique
Utilizing gentle warmth accelerates flavor infusion, perfect when on tight timing but aiming for deep savory notes.
- Heat Vodka: Warm vodka gently over low heat to about 120°F (49°C). Avoid boiling to preserve alcohol integrity.
- Add Ingredients: Place spice blend and chopped vegetables into a heatproof jar.
- Combine: Pour the warm vodka over the ingredients.
- Cover & Steep: Seal the jar and wrap it in a towel to retain heat.
- Infuse: Let steep for 2 to 4 hours, shaking the jar hourly.
- Cool & Strain: Cool the infusion to room temperature, strain thoroughly, and bottle.
| Technique | Temperature | Infusion Time | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Infusion | Room temperature (68°F) | 3 to 5 days | Balanced & rounded |
| Cold Infusion | Refrigerated (38°F) | 5 to 7 days | Bright, fresh, crisp |
| Hot Infusion | Warm (120°F) | 2 to 4 hours | Intense, savory, rapid |
“A perfectly infused Bloody Mary Vodka transforms any cocktail into an unforgettable experience,” and these techniques give us flexible, effective approaches to achieve that signature taste every time.
Flavor Variations and Combinations
Exploring diverse flavor variations and combinations helps us customize our Bloody Mary Vodka Infusions to suit any palate. Each infusion offers a unique twist to the classic cocktail, amplifying its taste complexity and enjoyment.
Classic Bloody Mary Infusion
The Classic Bloody Mary Infusion focuses on maintaining the iconic savory profile that defines this cocktail. We blend ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp celery, and fresh parsley with a blend of traditional spices to create a well-rounded vodka infusion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp horseradish, grated
- 750 ml vodka (80-100 proof)
Characteristics:
| Flavor Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Tomato | Juicy, sweet, slightly acidic |
| Celery | Crisp, fresh vegetal notes |
| Parsley | Mildly peppery herbal touch |
| Black Pepper | Warm, pungent spice |
| Smoked Paprika | Earthy, smoky depth |
| Horseradish | Sharp, spicy heat |
This infusion creates a perfectly balanced base for the traditional Bloody Mary — savory, bright, and robust.
Spicy Infused Vodka
For those who love a kick of heat, a Spicy Infused Vodka amplifies the cocktail’s boldness. We incorporate fresh chili peppers and intensified spices to deliver a fiery yet flavorful blend.
Ingredients:
- 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for milder heat)
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 750 ml vodka
Flavor Highlights:
- Jalapeños add fresh, fiery notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes deepen the spice.
- Cayenne powder delivers sustained warmth.
- Smoked paprika enhances smokiness.
We recommend tasting the infusion daily to control heat intensity, usually ready within 3 to 5 days.
Herb-Forward Infusion
The Herb-Forward Infusion puts fresh garden herbs center stage, emphasizing green, aromatic tones that complement the Bloody Mary’s savory base.
Ingredients:
- 3 sprigs fresh cilantro
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 celery stalk, bruised
- 750 ml vodka
Aromatic Profile:
| Herb | Aromatic Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Cilantro | Citrusy, bright herbal freshness |
| Thyme | Earthy, lemony undertones |
| Rosemary | Piney, resinous notes |
| Celery | Crisp vegetal freshness |
This infusion adds a sophisticated complexity that surprises the palate while honoring the cocktail’s essence.
Citrusy and Zesty Variations
Brightening the Bloody Mary with citrusy and zesty notes introduces a fresh dimension perfect for brunches or warm weather.
Ingredients:
- Peel of 1 lemon (avoid white pith)
- Peel of 1 lime
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
- 1 small piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 750 ml vodka
Flavor Impact:
- Lemon and lime peels infuse vibrant citrus oils.
- Lemongrass adds a subtle lemongrass-ginger brightness.
- Fresh ginger provides a spicy warmth with zesty crispness.
These lively notes cut through the cocktail’s richness, delivering a refreshing twist that invigorates the senses.
By experimenting with these flavor variations and combinations, we can tailor our Bloody Mary Vodka Infusions to match any occasion and preference, ensuring our cocktails remain memorable and delightfully complex.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion recipes, let us explore the best ways to serve these vibrant, savory spirits. These suggestions enhance the drinking experience and impress guests through creative cocktail recipes and eye-catching presentation.
Cocktail Recipes Using Infused Vodka
Using Bloody Mary infused vodka as the base unlocks endless possibilities to craft delicious, well-balanced cocktails. Here are three standout recipes showcasing the versatility and boldness of our infused vodka.
| Cocktail Name | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Bloody Mary | 2 oz Bloody Mary infused vodka, 4 oz tomato juice, 0.5 oz lemon juice, 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce, 2 dashes hot sauce, pinch black pepper | Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake gently. Strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish as desired. |
| Spicy Mary Twist | 2 oz Spicy Infused vodka, 3 oz tomato juice, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, 1 tsp horseradish, 1 dash hot sauce | Stir ingredients with ice in a mixing glass. Pour into a salt-rimmed glass. Add spicy garnishes like jalapeño slices. |
| Herbal Citrus Mary | 2 oz Herb-Forward Infused vodka, 3 oz Clamato, 0.5 oz fresh grapefruit juice, pinch celery salt | Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Top with a celery stalk and fresh thyme sprig. |
“The infused vodka ensures each sip carries layers of complex flavors, transforming a traditional Bloody Mary into an artisanal cocktail experience.”
Presentation and Garnishes
Elevating our cocktails’ appearance and taste through thoughtful presentation and garnishes helps create unforgettable Bloody Mary moments.
- Celery Sticks and Fresh Herbs: Classic and refreshing, celery sticks add crunch while herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro highlight botanical notes.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled green beans, okra, or cherry tomatoes bring tangy brightness and a briny contrast that complements the infusion’s savory profile.
- Citrus Wedges: Lemon, lime, or grapefruit wedges introduce refreshing acidity and vibrant visual appeal.
- Spicy Accents: Skewered olives stuffed with peppers, pickled jalapeños, or a rim of smoked paprika and chili salt spice up the presentation and flavor.
- Creative Skewers: Thread ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, cooked shrimp, bacon strips, or mini grilled cheese bites for a fun and tasty garnish.
| Garnish Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Celery Sticks | Crunch and herbal aroma |
| Pickled Vegetables | Tanginess and savory contrast |
| Citrus Wedges | Brightness and visual appeal |
| Spicy Accents | Heat and flavor complexity |
| Creative Skewers | Visual interest and added snackable elements |
By pairing our Bloody Mary Vodka Infusions with complementary garnishes and cocktail formulations, we create more than just drinks—we offer a feast for the senses.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing your Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion ahead of time ensures deeper flavor development and convenient cocktail crafting. Proper storage preserves the vibrant taste and guarantees a fresh, ready-to-use infused vodka for any occasion.
Infusion Time Guidelines
The infusion duration directly impacts the flavor intensity. Here’s a clear guide to help us achieve the perfect balance:
| Infusion Method | Duration | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Infusion | 24 to 48 hours | Mild to moderate savory flavors | Perfect for quick batches, lighter tomato and herb notes |
| Cold Infusion Technique | 3 to 5 days | Richer, well-rounded depth | Ideal for complex herbal and spice blends |
| Hot Infusion Technique | 2 to 4 hours | Intense, bold flavors | Fast extraction but watch for overpowering spices |
“The key is to start tasting after 24 hours, then decide whether to extend the infusion for more robust flavor.”
For best results, we recommend straining the infused vodka immediately once the desired flavor intensity is reached to avoid bitterness or over-extraction.
Storing Infused Vodka Safely
Proper storage safeguards the flavor integrity and potency of our Bloody Mary vodka infusion. Here are the essentials for keeping it fresh:
- Use airtight, dark glass bottles to protect vodka from light which can degrade flavor.
- Store bottles upright in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or refrigerator.
- Labeled bottles with infusion date and ingredients help monitor freshness.
- Infused vodka typically remains fresh for up to 2 weeks refrigerated, maintaining optimal flavor.
- Before serving, always give the bottle a gentle shake to redistribute flavors evenly.
| Storage Tip | Purpose | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight Dark Bottles | Protects flavor and aroma | Amber or cobalt blue glass with tight lids |
| Refrigeration | Slows oxidation and spoilage | Keep at 35-45°F (2-7°C) |
| Date Labeling | Track infusion age | Use waterproof marker or adhesive labels |
| Gentle Shaking Before Use | Redistribute settled flavors | Shake gently 5-10 seconds prior to mixing |
Storing infused vodka properly lets us enjoy a consistent, savory Bloody Mary base that elevates every cocktail occasion.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When creating Bloody Mary Vodka Infusions, certain challenges can arise. Here are solutions to the most common issues we encounter, ensuring each infusion turns out flavorful and smooth.
Cloudy or Murky Infusion
A cloudy infusion can affect the appearance and perceived quality of our Bloody Mary vodka.
- Cause: Fine particles from fresh vegetables or herbs remain suspended in the vodka.
- Solution:
- Use a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or even a coffee filter to strain the infusion thoroughly.
- Let the infusion settle in a cool, dark place for a few hours after straining to allow remaining particles to sink.
- Decant the clear liquid carefully, leaving sediment behind.
Weak or Undersaturated Flavor
A lack of bold flavor can disappoint our Bloody Mary expectations.
-
Possible Reasons:
- Insufficient infusion time.
- Low ingredient-to-vodka ratio.
- Ingredients not freshly prepped or bruised.
-
Fix:
- Extend the infusion time according to our preferred method:
- Basic Infusion: 24-48 hours
- Cold Infusion: 3-5 days
- Hot Infusion: 2-4 hours
- Increase fresh herbs, spices, or vegetables slightly to intensify flavor.
- Ensure proper chopping or bruising of ingredients to release oils and juices.
Overly Bitter or Harsh Taste
An unpleasantly sharp taste can result from over-extraction or certain ingredient imbalances.
-
Causes:
- Infusing too long for stronger flavor ingredients like celery or horseradish.
- Excessive amounts of bitter herbs or spices.
-
How to Correct:
- Dilute the infusion by mixing it with a small amount of uninfused vodka to balance the harshness.
- Shorten future infusion times for potent ingredients.
- Reassess ingredient quantities, especially horseradish and black peppercorns.
Sediment Formation During Storage
Tiny particles settling after infusion is normal but can be off-putting.
- Recommendation:
- Store infused vodka in dark glass bottles to inhibit light exposure which accelerates degradation.
- Keep bottles airtight and refrigerated to preserve freshness.
- Shake gently before use to redistribute any settled flavors.
Infusion Not Producing Desired Spicy Kick
For those who love the heat but find their infusion mild:
- Tips:
- Use fresh chili peppers with seeds to boost heat.
- Combine different spicy elements like horseradish and black peppercorns for layered spice.
- Adjust infusion time—longer cold infusions often yield deeper heat.
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cloudy infusion | Suspended fine particles | Fine mesh/cheesecloth strain; let settle and decant |
| Weak flavor | Short infusion; low ingredient ratio | Increase time; boost ingredient amounts; proper bruising |
| Bitter or harsh taste | Over-extraction; excess bitter ingredients | Dilute with plain vodka; shorten time; reduce strong herbs |
| Sediment in storage | Natural settling of particles | Dark glass bottles; refrigerate; shake before use |
| Insufficient spicy heat | Mild peppers; short infusion time | Use hotter peppers; combine spices; extend infusion time |
Using these troubleshooting tips, we ensure our Bloody Mary Vodka Infusions deliver the perfect blend of flavor and clarity every time.
Conclusion
Crafting your own Bloody Mary Vodka Infusion opens up a world of bold flavors and creative possibilities. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can elevate this classic cocktail to new heights that suit any palate or occasion.
By experimenting with different infusions and garnishes, we not only save time but also impress guests with a personalized touch. Whether it’s a spicy kick or a fresh herbaceous note, infused vodka transforms the Bloody Mary into a signature experience worth savoring.
Let’s keep exploring these vibrant recipes and enjoy every sip of our handcrafted creations. Cheers to making every Bloody Mary moment unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bloody Mary vodka infusion?
Bloody Mary vodka infusion is vodka infused with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices like tomato, celery, and black pepper to create a flavorful base for Bloody Mary cocktails.
What ingredients are best for infusing vodka for a Bloody Mary?
Use high-quality neutral vodka, cherry tomatoes, celery, parsley, cilantro, horseradish, black peppercorns, smoked paprika, and optional chili peppers or citrus.
How long should I infuse vodka for a Bloody Mary?
Infusion time varies by method: Basic Infusion takes 24–48 hours, Cold Infusion 3–5 days, and Hot Infusion just 2–4 hours for stronger flavors.
What tools do I need for vodka infusion?
Wide-mouth glass jars or mason jars for infusion, fine mesh strainers or cheesecloth for filtering, and airtight, dark glass bottles for storage.
Can I prepare Bloody Mary vodka infusions in advance?
Yes, infusions develop deeper, richer flavors when prepared ahead and stored properly in airtight bottles in the refrigerator.
How can I fix cloudy or bitter infused vodka?
Use fine strainers or coffee filters to clarify; reduce time with bitter ingredients and adjust spice levels in future batches for balanced flavor.
What are some popular flavor variations for Bloody Mary vodka infusions?
Classic savory, spicy with chili peppers, herb-forward with garden herbs, and citrusy variations with lemon or lime for bright, fresh notes.
How should I serve cocktails made with infused Bloody Mary vodka?
Serve over ice with complementary garnishes like celery sticks, pickled vegetables, lemon wedges, and creative skewers to enhance flavor and presentation.
Is it necessary to shake the vodka before using?
Yes, shaking mixes settled flavors and ensures a consistent, well-blended infusion before pouring cocktails.
How do I store infused vodka to keep it fresh?
Store in airtight, dark glass bottles in the refrigerator to maintain flavor potency and freshness for several weeks.