How to Keep Used Peanut Oil Safely

Store peanut oil in glass bottles for maximum freshness and protection.

Peanut oil is used widely throughout the culinary industry for frying, sautéing, and creating a variety of baked goods. Because of the nature of fats present in the oil, peanut oil must be kept in a cool, dry area to avoid any light or heat, which might oxidize it or turn it rancid. Use the oil within a year of opening it to avoid degenerated fatty acids, which slowly occur after opening. Discard the oil if you have not used it in one year.

Things You'll Need

• Colored paper
• Dark glass bottle

Instructions

1. After each use, immediately place the cap back on the peanut oil before storing it. Peanut oil is also very susceptible to oxygen, which may turn the fats rancid, so allow as little air as possible to enter the container.

2. Cover the used bottle of peanut oil with a dark film or colored paper, if the bottle or container is clear. This stage is important for avoiding any contact with light, which might conduct heat in the oil.

3. Place the container or bottle of peanut oil in the back of a cool, dark pantry or cabinet to ensure that there will be as little light and heat as possible coming in contact with the oil.

4. Store peanut oil in glass bottles instead of plastic ones if the chemicals from plastic are a concern. Glass will let the oil remain fresher longer and will not infuse a taste into the oil over long periods of storage. Choose a glass bottle or container that is relatively dark, or cover it with a dark film or colored paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not store peanut oil in the refrigerator. Although it is a cool place, the oil will be constantly exposed to light and air when the refrigerator is opened.

References

• American Peanut Sheller's Association: Where should I store peanut oil?