How to Keep Almonds Fresh

The shells keep almonds fresh longer.

Whether you keep them around as a healthy snack option or use them for baking and cooking, a serving of almonds provides a generous portion of protein, healthy oils, vitamin E, iron and several dietary minerals. The high oil content of almonds means they can turn rancid quickly, particularly when exposed to heat and light, so follow a few precautions when storing almonds to keep them fresh as long as possible.

Things You'll Need

• Airtight container
• Freezer bag

Instructions

1. Purchase almonds in the shell, if possible -- they stay fresh longer than shelled almonds.

2. Transfer the almonds to an airtight container and make sure the lid is tightly shut. Place the container in a cool, dry area in your pantry or kitchen cabinets. Find an area that is usually dark if your container is transparent. Store shelled almonds for up to three months and unshelled almonds for up to a year.

3. Seal the almonds in a plastic freezer bag for longer-term storage. Keep the bag in the refrigerator for five to six months or in the freezer for up to a year for shelled almonds. Unshelled almonds will keep even longer.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid storing almonds near strong-smelling foods such as onions.

References

• "The Condensed Encyclopedia of Healing Foods"; Michael Murray, et al.; 2006
• "The Illustrated Cook's Book of Ingredients"; DK Publishing; 2010
• "The Art and Soul of Baking"; Sur La Table, et al.; 2008