So you just tried a new cookie recipe that called for almond flour. The recipe did not need that much flour and you ended up with an open pack that was still almost full and you are not sure how to store almond flour properly. Does almond flour need refrigeration? Or is it okay to keep almond flour in the pantry?
If you have a similar situation, we got you covered! In this article, we talk about almond flour shelf life and address the most frequently asked questions around it. Let’s read on!
How to Store Almond Flour
Almond flour is a popular substitute for conventional wheat flour. It is generally preferred for its gluten-free property as well as for the nutrient contents. Almond is known as a good source of plant-based protein. It is also low in carbs, high in fat, vitamin E, and fiber.
Although named as “flour”, instead of by a milling process, almond flour is produced by grinding almonds after being steamed and peeled.
Almond flour is easily found at your local supermarket or online marketplace, but it is also surprisingly easy to make at home. If you decide to make homemade almond flour, you might wonder how to keep it and prolong its shelf life.
Homemade Almond Flour
Homemade almond flourshould always be kept in an airtight container or jar. Store it in the pantry or cabinet if you plan to use it soon. You can also store it in the fridge for a longer period. Don’t forget to label the jar with the date of making.
Store-bought Almond Flour
Store-bought almond flour is relatively shelf-stable and can be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from sources of light and heat.
Avoid exposure to heat and moisture as these two will degrade your almond flour and give molds a chance to grow. Unless you live in a tropical climate or where summer days can get so harsh in your place, your kitchen pantry or cabinet will do the job. If you’re doubtful, keeping in the kitchen might give you peace of mind.
For double protection, you can also store it with other dry goods in one big sealed container. Be careful if you have a family member who is allergic to almond or tree nuts. Make sure the flour does not spill and contaminate other dry ingredients.
After opening, keep it tightly sealed in the refrigerator until the next use. If necessary, consider transferring the remaining product to an airtight container or jar.
Can You Freeze Almond Flour?
Yes, likewise with many other food items, freezing is a popular yet easy way to prolong food shelf life. Simply transfer the flour into a freezer bag or a freezer-safe container. Prior to use, thaw the frozen flour in the fridge.
How Long Does Almond Flour Last?
Almond flour doesn’t last as long as other traditional flours. Each package is typically accompanied by a “best before” or “best by” date. Always observe this date as guidance for your purchase and consumption. This information indicates that the product will maintain its prime quality prior to the date.
Always keep in mind that proper storage is always the key to extending shelf life. It can go bad faster with improper storage or if the package is damaged, even before the date.
Homemade almond flour can stay fresh within 1 month at room temperature. In the fridge, it can stay fresh up to 2 months and even longer. Make sure to keep the container tightly closed to avoid exposure to air.
Store-bought almond flour is best consumed prior to the best by date. But, this doesn’t mean that the flour will go bad the day after it. With better storage, an unopened pack of almond flour can stay for the next few months up to a year in the fridge.
An opened pack of almond flour should be finished immediately before it goes rancid, but may still be usable up to 3 – 6 months. However, it is important to check for signs of spoilage before deciding to use it for a recipe.
How to Tell if Almond Flour is Bad
Almond flour is rich in fat content and tends to go rancid faster than other traditional starchy flour. If your flour smells rancid, it is a sign that the flour is bad and better to toss it. It won’t taste good either in your cookies or pancake.
Other signs include visible molds, an infestation of bugs/ insects, and discoloration. If you see one of these signs, it is also time to discard the remaining product. Don’t risk your health and quickly toss it.
If the package is damaged or when in doubt, it is better to discard it for safety reasons.
FAQs
Can you use expired almond flour?
Yes, it is possible, provided that the product is stored properly. The stamped date is to indicate the best quality guaranteed by the manufacturer. However, if the package is damaged, or any signs of spoilage are seen, it is better to stay on the safe side and discard it.
Is almond flour similar to an almond meal?
Almond flour (also known as blanched almond flour) is made from peeled almonds. Meanwhile, another product made from raw, unpeeled almonds is called almond meals.
Although almond flour and almond meals are frequently used interchangeably, they have subtle differences in texture and color. Almond flour is lighter in color and finer in texture, while an almond meal is more coarse and darker. You might need to look further into which one is best for your recipe.
Is almond flour keto-friendly?
Yes, almond flour is low in carbs and high in fat content and is suitable for a keto diet. It is also suitable for a paleo diet.
Conclusion
Almond flour is one of the most popular flour alternatives that is rich in nutrients and meets certain dietary preferences, such as gluten-free, keto diet, or paleo diet.
However, high nutrient content also means that almond flour can go bad more quickly than other traditional flours. Almond flour can be kept at room temperature, but keeping it in the fridge or freezer can extend the shelf life as well as maintain its quality.
If almond flour is rancid, infested with insects, develops off odor, and mold growth, it is time to throw it away. To prolong the shelf life and minimize food waste, always practice good hygiene and proper storage.
Rosa graduated with a master degree in Food Safety from Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands. Recently, she started a consulting agency to facilitate the improvement of food safety, quality, and sustainability.
