All About Slivered almonds
Your complete guide to slivered almonds - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Slivered almonds Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for slivered almonds 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 pantry6-12 months (or until best-by date)
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid, bitter, or 'off' smell; extremely bitter taste; visible mold (rare if sealed properly).
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'use by' date. If the packaging is transparent, look for any discoloration or signs of moisture. Smell test after opening.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. While they may be safe past the 'best by' date, quality (flavor and crispness) can degrade.
opened pantry1-3 months
Signs of Spoilage
Strong, unpleasant smell resembling old paint, crayons, or bitter chemicals (rancidity); bitter, sour, or metallic taste; soft or chewy texture (should be crisp); visible mold (if moisture is present).
How to Check
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Smell Test: Take a small handful and sniff. Fresh almonds have a mild, slightly sweet, nutty aroma. If it smells 'off', rancid, or like chemicals, discard.
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Taste Test: If the smell is acceptable, taste one. A bitter, acrid, or unpleasant chemical taste indicates spoilage.
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Visual Inspection: Look for any discoloration, shriveling, or fuzzy mold growth.
Storage Tips
Transfer to an airtight container (glass jar, heavy-duty plastic container) immediately after opening. Keep away from heat, light, and humidity, as these accelerate rancidity. Storing in the pantry is generally not recommended for long-term freshness once opened.
opened refrigerator6-9 months
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid, 'off' smell; bitter or sour taste; loss of crispness (though less noticeable than at room temp); visible mold (rare if kept dry and sealed).
How to Check
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Smell Test: Sniff a small amount. If it smells like old paint, crayons, or just 'off', it's rancid.
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Taste Test: If the smell is fine, taste one. A bitter or unpleasant chemical taste means it's gone bad.
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Visual Inspection: Check for any unusual discoloration or signs of mold.
Storage Tips
This is a much better option than pantry storage for opened almonds. Store in an airtight container (e.g., glass jar with a tight lid, heavy-duty zip-top bag with air removed) to protect them from absorbing odors from other foods and from moisture, which can cause mold.
opened freezer1-2 years
Signs of Spoilage
Very unlikely to spoil in the freezer. Main issues would be freezer burn (dry spots, dull flavor) if not properly sealed, or very subtle rancidity over a very long time.
How to Check
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Smell/Taste Test (after thawing): Thaw a small amount and check for any rancid or 'off' smells and tastes as described above.
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Visual Inspection: Look for excessive ice crystals or signs of freezer burn, which can affect texture and flavor.
Storage Tips
This is the best method for long-term storage of opened almonds to preserve freshness and prevent rancidity. Store in a heavy-duty freezer bag with as much air removed as possible, or in an airtight freezer-safe container. Label with the date. Thaw at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes, or use directly in recipes like baking as they will thaw quickly.