Some veggies not covered in liquid

[amacgillivray]

I have just started learning about fermentation. But when I was given a large jar of mixed fermented vegetables about 3 months ago, I knew nothing and was hesitant.

I put it in the fridge, eventually went to try it, and the ends of some large cucumbers were now above the surface of the liquid. I opened it briefly to smell it, and there was no hint of mold or bad smells.

I need to return the jar to the neighbour and would like to be able to say I enjoyed the gift, but I also want to be safe.

[Christopher Weeks]

We'd have more to go on with a picture, but in general that sounds like a pretty safe situation. Any time I have a vegetable that's a little weird, I eat just a bite and wait 24 hours do see if it disrupts my digestive system. It virtually never does.