All About Peanut oil
Your complete guide to peanut oil - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Peanut oil Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for peanut oil 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.
opened refrigerator12-18 months (up to 2 years)
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid odor, bitter or sour taste (after warming to room temperature). Note: Cloudiness and partial solidification are normal for peanut oil in the fridge and are not signs of spoilage.
How to Check
Allow a small amount to warm to room temperature if it has solidified. Then, perform a smell test (looking for rancidity) and a taste test. The oil should smell and taste clean.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration significantly slows down the oxidation process that leads to rancidity, extending the shelf life. Peanut oil will become cloudy and may partially solidify in the fridge, which is completely normal and reversible when brought to room temperature. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent the oil from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
opened pantry6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Distinct rancid odor (often described as crayon, metallic, bitter, or stale), unpleasant bitter or sour taste, increased viscosity or stickiness, significant darkening of color, unusual sediment.
How to Check
Smell test: A fresh oil should have a mild, pleasant, or neutral aroma. A strong, unpleasant odor indicates rancidity. Taste test: If the smell is acceptable, taste a tiny drop. It should be clean; if it's bitter, sour, or 'off,' it's rancid. Visual inspection: Check for unusual cloudiness, sediment, or significant color change.
Storage Tips
Keep the bottle tightly capped to minimize exposure to oxygen, which is the primary cause of rancidity. Store in a cool, dark cupboard, away from heat-generating appliances. For very large bottles, consider decanting into smaller, air-tight containers for daily use to reduce the main supply's exposure to air.
unopened pantry1-2 years (often past 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Strong rancid odor (waxy, metallic, bitter, stale peanut), significant darkening of color, unusual cloudiness or sediment (if not typical for the oil type).
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'use by' date as a guideline. Upon opening, smell for a fresh, neutral, or mild peanut aroma. Look for clarity and consistent color.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources (e.g., near the stove, on a windowsill). The original dark glass or plastic bottle helps protect it from light.