All About Naan
Your complete guide to naan - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Naan Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for naan in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Unopened, Refrigerated Package1-2 weeks past purchase date (if within 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (fuzzy green, white, black spots), sour or yeasty off-smell, sticky or slimy texture, discoloration (darker or unusual patches).
How to Check
Visually inspect the entire package for any signs of mold. Gently squeeze the package to feel for sliminess. Open and perform a sniff test; a sour or unpleasant odor indicates spoilage.
Storage Tips
Always check the 'best by' or 'use by' date on the packaging. Keep the package sealed until ready to use to maintain freshness.
Opened, Room Temperature1-2 days
Signs of Spoilage
Hardening and drying out, visible mold, stale or sour smell, loss of elasticity.
How to Check
Visually check for any mold growth, especially on edges or crevices. Feel the naan – if it's stiff, brittle, or significantly dry, it's past its prime. Perform a sniff test for any off-odors like staleness or sourness.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container or a tightly sealed plastic bag to prevent drying out. Best consumed quickly after opening when stored this way.
Opened, Refrigerated3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (fuzzy spots of any color), distinct sour or unpleasant yeasty smell, slimy or sticky texture, significant hardening or drying (if not properly sealed).
How to Check
Carefully inspect both sides of the naan for any fuzzy mold growth. Perform a sniff test; discard if it has a strong sour, off-putting, or alcohol-like smell. Touch the surface – if it feels slimy or unusually sticky, it's spoiled.
Storage Tips
Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent drying and absorption of refrigerator odors.
Frozen2-3 months
Signs of Spoilage
Heavy freezer burn (large dry, discolored, or leathery patches), strong off-odors (from absorbing other freezer smells), significant mushiness or crumbly texture after thawing, or visible mold (if frozen when already spoiled).
How to Check
Visually inspect for excessive freezer burn; while safe, it affects quality. After thawing, smell for any strong, unpleasant odors. Check texture after thawing; if it's excessively mushy or falls apart, quality has degraded significantly.
Storage Tips
To freeze, wrap individual naans tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before reheating. Do not refreeze thawed naan.