Josefine Bagger Sommerlund
You might think your pantry staples last forever—but many of them expire sooner than you’d expect.
A peek into your pantry might reveal more than just dust—your dry goods could be past their expiration date without any obvious signs.
1. Breadcrumbs
While they last longer than fresh bread, breadcrumbs are still sensitive to moisture. When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, they can last up to six months. Humidity can lead to mold and off smells.
2. Brown Rice
Brown rice has a shorter shelf life than white rice because of the natural oils in the bran. These can go rancid quickly. At room temperature, brown rice stays fresh for about six months—though refrigeration can significantly extend its life.
3. Cornmeal
Popular as a gluten-free option and for breading, cornmeal can degrade quickly. It should be kept dry and away from heat sources like ovens or dishwashers. Moisture and heat can cause mold, unpleasant taste, or even attract bugs.
4. Crackers
Once opened, crackers absorb moisture from the air, making them soft and stale. To keep them crisp, eat them soon after opening or reseal the package tightly. They’re not ideal for long-term storage once opened.
5. Dried Fruit
Shelf life varies by fruit type—figs last around three months, while raisins can last up to a year. Storage temperature plays a big role: the warmer it is, the shorter their lifespan.
6. Nuts
Nuts contain fats that can go rancid. Pistachios last about three months, while almonds can stay good for up to a year. For best freshness, store them in a cool place and rotate regularly.
7. Peanut Butter
Store-bought peanut butter can last up to two years unopened, but natural peanut butter without preservatives has a shorter shelf life—especially once opened. Always check the label and refrigerate after opening.
8. Spices
Spices don’t spoil like regular food, but they lose flavor over time. Ground spices fade faster, especially when exposed to light and air. Whole spices keep their aroma longer and are best freshly ground when used.
9. Tortilla Chips
Like crackers, tortilla chips absorb moisture quickly and go stale soon after opening. For maximum crunch, enjoy them quickly—an excellent excuse to whip up some extra dip or guac.
10. Whole Grain Flour
Whole grain flours like wheat or oat flour spoil faster than refined ones because they contain oil-rich components. At room temperature, they last about three months—but can keep up to a year in the fridge or freezer.