DecodedGuides

How long do nut oils last?

In the fridge, nut oils keep for 6 to 8 months after opening. In the pantry, they keep for 6 to 12 months from the package date. Once opened, use it within 6 to 8 months.

Pantry

6 to 12 months

from the package date

Fridge

6 to 8 months

after opening

After opening

6 to 8 months

in the fridge unless noted

Do nut oils go bad?

Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, nut oils may still be safe for a short while but quality drops and spoilage signs start. The date on the package is the maker's quality promise; the times here count from purchase unless marked "from the package date".

Two numbers to keep in mind: a fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below, and no more than 2 hours at room temperature (1 hour above 90 F / 32 C) for anything perishable.

How to tell nut oils have gone bad

General signs for baked goods: baking and cooking, the group USDA lists nut oils under.

  • Small moths, beetles or larvae in the flour or grains
  • Clumping or hardening from moisture getting into the bag
  • Sharp, crayon-like or paint-like smell from oil
  • Baking powder that no longer fizzes when mixed with water
  • Chocolate chips with a dull grey bloom or waxy smell

More on baked goods: baking and cooking. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.

How long do other baked goods: baking and cooking last?

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.