Pumpkin seeds ingredient

All About Pumpkin seeds

nuts

Your complete guide to pumpkin seeds - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.

4 storage methods
16 substitutes
3 cooking methods

How Long Does Pumpkin seeds Last?

Storage times and freshness tips for pumpkin seeds 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, at room temperature
6-12 months

Signs of Spoilage

Stale or off-odor, slightly bitter taste, dull color, or in rare cases, visible mold if moisture has somehow penetrated the packaging.

How to Check

Check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date on the package. If past the date, open and perform a smell test for rancidity. Visually inspect for any discoloration or signs of moisture.

Storage Tips

Store in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. While safe past the 'best by' date, quality may decline.

opened, refrigerated
3-6 months

Signs of Spoilage

Rancid smell or taste, dull appearance, or potential mold growth if moisture gets into the container.

How to Check

  1. Smell Test: Check for any off-odors, especially rancidity.

  2. Visual Inspection: Look for dullness, shriveling, or any signs of mold.

  3. Taste Test (small amount): If smell and look are good, taste a tiny amount for bitterness or sourness.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration significantly slows down the oxidation of the healthy fats in pumpkin seeds, extending their freshness. Always store in an airtight container or sealed bag to prevent absorption of fridge odors and to protect from moisture.

opened, at room temperature
1-3 months

Signs of Spoilage

Rancid smell (like old paint, crayons, or bitter oil), bitter or sour taste, shriveled appearance, dull or darker color. Visible mold if exposed to moisture.

How to Check

  1. Smell Test: Sniff the seeds. A strong, unpleasant, chemical, or sour odor indicates rancidity.

  2. Visual Inspection: Look for any discoloration, shriveling, or fuzzy mold growth.

  3. Taste Test (small amount): If smell and look are okay, taste a tiny bit. A bitter, metallic, or unpleasant aftertaste means they are rancid.

Storage Tips

Transfer opened pumpkin seeds to an airtight container (glass jar, heavy-duty plastic container) or a sealed, heavy-duty bag to minimize exposure to air, light, and moisture. Store in a cool, dark pantry.

frozen
6-12 months (for optimal quality), safe indefinitely

Signs of Spoilage

Freezer burn (dry, shriveled appearance), loss of flavor, or subtle rancidity if stored for an extremely long time or not sealed properly.

How to Check

  1. Visual Inspection: Check for excessive freezer burn, which can affect texture and flavor.

  2. Smell Test (after thawing): Sniff for any off-odors once thawed.

  3. Taste Test (small amount after thawing): Taste a small amount for any signs of staleness or rancidity.

Storage Tips

For best quality, store in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Label with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before use, or use directly in recipes like baking where they will be heated.