All About Tahini
Your complete guide to tahini - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Tahini Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for tahini 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, Room Temperature (Pantry)1-2 years from production date, or 6-12 months past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Strongly rancid smell, extremely bitter taste (if tasted), visible mold (extremely rare, usually only if seal is compromised). Oil separation is normal and not a sign of spoilage.
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date printed on the jar. If significantly past, open the jar and perform a smell test: a sharp, acrid, metallic, or crayon-like odor indicates rancidity. Visually inspect for any signs of mold, though this is highly unlikely in an unopened, properly sealed jar.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark pantry or cabinet away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and significant temperature fluctuations. Oil separation is a natural process for tahini; simply stir well once opened to reincorporate.
Opened, Room Temperature (Pantry)3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid smell (sharp, bitter, metallic, or crayon-like), very bitter or sour taste, significantly hardened and dried out texture, dark discoloration, visible mold (rare, but possible if moisture is introduced).
How to Check
Smell Test: Open the jar and take a deep whiff. Fresh tahini has a mild, nutty, earthy aroma. Any sharp, unpleasant, chemical-like, or distinctly bitter smell indicates rancidity. Visual Inspection: Look for any dark spots, fuzzy growth (mold), or unusual discoloration on the surface or sides of the jar. Check for excessive hardening or a thick, crusty layer on top that doesn't easily stir back in. Taste Test (if smell and appearance are acceptable): Take a tiny amount. It should taste nutty and slightly earthy. A bitter, sour, or metallic taste means it's spoiled.
Storage Tips
Always use clean, dry utensils to prevent introducing moisture or contaminants. Keep the lid tightly sealed after each use. Stir well before each use to reincorporate any separated oil and maintain a consistent texture. While possible to store at room temperature, refrigeration significantly extends its shelf life.
Opened, Refrigerated6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Rancid smell (sharp, bitter, metallic, or crayon-like), very bitter or sour taste, visible mold (extremely rare). Note: Tahini will naturally become much thicker and harder when refrigerated; this is normal and not a sign of spoilage.
How to Check
Smell Test: Perform a smell test as described for room temperature storage – check for any off, rancid, or unpleasant odors. Visual Inspection: Look carefully for any signs of mold on the surface or around the edges, although this is very uncommon in refrigerated tahini. Taste Test (if smell and appearance are acceptable): A small taste should confirm if it's still nutty and pleasant, or if it has developed a bitter or sour taste.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration will cause tahini to thicken and solidify, making it harder to stir or scoop. For easier use, you can let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before using, or warm gently in a microwave for a few seconds (without the lid) to soften. Always use clean utensils and keep the lid tightly sealed to prevent absorption of refrigerator odors.