All About Peanuts
Your complete guide to peanuts - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Peanuts Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for peanuts 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.
Unshelled Peanuts (Pantry)6-12 months (unopened), 3-6 months (opened)
Signs of Spoilage
Mold on shells, shriveled or discolored kernels, strong rancid or bitter smell/taste.
How to Check
Visually inspect shells for dark spots, fuzzy mold, or damage. Crack open a few and check kernels for discoloration (darkening, yellowing), shriveling, or signs of insect activity. Smell for off-odors (musty, sour, paint-like). Taste a small piece only if no other signs are present; discard if bitter or stale.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark, dry place in a breathable bag (like a mesh bag) or an airtight container to protect from pests. The shell provides natural protection against oxidation, extending shelf life.
Shelled Raw Peanuts (Pantry)3-6 months (unopened), 1-3 months (opened)
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid, bitter, or sour smell/taste; shriveled or discolored kernels (yellow, brown, dark spots); visible mold; gummy or soft texture.
How to Check
Smell for strong, unpleasant odors (like old paint, bitter, sour, or musty). Visually inspect for dark spots, shriveling, or fuzzy mold. Check texture, they should be firm. Taste a very small piece if no other signs are present; discard if bitter, sour, or stale. Never taste if mold is present.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and moisture. Keep in a cool, dark, dry place. Exposure to light and heat accelerates rancidity.
Shelled Roasted Peanuts (Pantry)1-3 months (unopened), 2-4 weeks (opened)
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid, stale, or bitter smell/taste; soft or chewy texture (should be crisp); visible mold (rare if properly stored); darkened or oily appearance.
How to Check
Smell for off-odors (rancid oil, stale, bitter). Check texture – they should be crisp, not soft or chewy. Taste for bitterness, sourness, or a stale flavor. Discard immediately if mold is visible.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container away from light and heat. Roasted peanuts have a shorter shelf life than raw due to the oil being more exposed and prone to oxidation. Refrigeration is recommended for extending freshness after opening.
Shelled Peanuts (Refrigerated)6-12 months (raw), 3-6 months (roasted)
Signs of Spoilage
Strong rancid smell, extreme bitterness, visible mold, significant discoloration.
How to Check
Smell test is the primary indicator for rancidity. Visually inspect for any signs of mold or significant discoloration. Taste a small amount only if no other signs are present; discard if bitter or off-tasting.
Storage Tips
Store in a tightly sealed, airtight container or heavy-duty resealable bag to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods and to protect against moisture. Refrigeration significantly slows down the rancidity process.
Shelled Peanuts (Frozen)1-2 years (raw), 6-12 months (roasted)
Signs of Spoilage
Severe rancidity (even if frozen, over time), freezer burn (affects quality, not safety), strong off-flavors after thawing.
How to Check
After thawing, smell for rancid odors. Visually check for severe freezer burn (dry, discolored spots). Taste a small amount; discard if it tastes off or bitter.
Storage Tips
Store in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and absorption of freezer odors. Label with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use. Freezing is the best method for preserving peanuts long-term.