Does oatmeal expire? The surprising truth you must know!
– Oatmeal has a fairly long shelf life compared to other foods.
– Shelf life can vary depending on how it was processed, whether it has been cooked, and the storing method.
– Commercially processed and uncooked rolled, quick, or steel-cut oats can last at least 12 months, up to 2 years if unopened or stored in an airtight container.
– Unstabilized oats (not steamed during processing) have a shelf life of about 3-4 months.
– Oatmeal with added ingredients like dry milk or fruit can last from 4 months to 1 year, depending on storage and ingredients.
– Cooked or prepared oatmeal should not be kept longer than 3-4 days, but it can be safely frozen for up to 3 months.
– Uncooked oatmeal is unlikely to make you sick if past its prime, but its quality may decline over time and it may become stale or develop flavors that are not palatable.
– If oats are exposed to moisture, they may be susceptible to mold growth, and any molds should not be eaten.
– Inspect the color, texture, and scent of oats to determine if they are still good.
– Mold or changes in scent, color, or texture indicate that oatmeal is unsafe to consume
– Storage method is crucial for maximizing shelf life of oatmeal
– Uncooked oats should be kept dry and stored in a cool, dry place
– After opening original packaging, transfer oats to a water- and air-tight container for freshness
– Cooked oatmeal should be stored in a container with a tight seal and refrigerated until ready to eat
– If freezing cooked oatmeal, use an air-tight container to prevent freezer burn
– Maximize oatmeal’s shelf life by keeping it in a cool, dry place with minimal exposure to moisture, air, and light