How to Store Edible Images So They Stay Fresh

Edible icing images are printed with food-grade ink on a thin layer of icing. Stored well, they stay flexible and bright until you need them. Stored badly, they can dry out, curl, crack or smudge before you ever use them.

1. Keep Them Sealed

Once exposed to air, icing sheets dry out and become brittle.

• Keep the sheet in its original packaging until you’re ready to use it.
• Once opened, reseal the bag and press out as much air as you can.
• Store any leftover pieces in a resealable bag, kept flat.

2. Store Somewhere Cool and Dry

Heat, humidity and sunlight can make the ink fade or smudge, and make the sheet curl or go sticky.

• A cool, dry pantry or cupboard is ideal.
• Keep them away from sunlight, ovens, stoves and dishwashers.
• Don’t refrigerate or freeze them for storage. The moisture can damage the sheets.

3. Keep Moisture Away

Moisture is the biggest enemy of edible images. It can make the ink blur or bleed before you use it.

• Always handle sheets with clean, dry hands.
• Keep them away from sinks, kettles and anywhere steamy.

4. Handle With Care

Icing sheets are thin and can tear easily.

• Store them flat so they don’t bend or crack.
• Peel gently from the backing when you’re ready to use them.
• If the backing is hard to remove, pop the sheet in the freezer for about 30 seconds just before peeling.

5. Use the Oldest First

• Check the best-before date on the packet.
• If you buy several sheets, use the oldest ones first.

The Short Version

• Keep sheets sealed and flat in their original bag.
• Store in a cool, dry cupboard, out of sunlight.
• No fridge or freezer for storage.
• Handle with dry hands and use the oldest sheets first.

Ready to use them? Here’s how to apply edible images, or browse our edible images.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep edible images in the fridge?

No. The fridge is too damp and can make the ink run or the sheet go soft. A cool, dry cupboard is best.

How long do edible images last?

Check the best-before date on the packet. Kept sealed, flat and dry, they’ll stay in good condition until then.

My edible image is curling. What do I do?

Curling usually means the sheet has been exposed to air or heat. Store it flat and sealed. If it’s stuck to the backing, a short time in the freezer helps it release.

Related reads: How to Apply Edible Images