Probably all of you have heard about chia seeds. Chia seeds are one of the most popular superfoods in the world. They are very popular because of their health benefits, but also because of their pretty neutral flavor. Because of their neutral and mild taste chia seeds go well with all recipes, so you can prepare cereals, smoothies, bake mixes and other meals using chia seeds.
But, how long chia seeds can last? How they should be stored and how we can tell that they have gone bad? Read on and you will find out. This article will be interesting and useful for you if chia seeds are a part of your diet.
More about Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are rich in amino acids, magnesium and other minerals. Also, they are high in fiber and digestible protein and they contain omega 3 fatty acids, as well as amino acids.
Chia seeds don’t contain gluten, soy, corn and wheat, which are known as the most common allergens. Chia seeds have many health benefits for people. They can help in curing diabetes, boosting metabolism and improving heart health. Chia seeds are considered universal food, because almost everyone can eat them, including our pets and even farm animals.
What Is the Shelf Life of Chia Seeds?
The shelf life of chia seeds depends on a variety of factors, such as the way of their storage and a best by date. It is known that the shelf life of chia seeds is pretty long. They can be stored for months in the cupboard or even years if they are refrigerated. Frozen chia seeds can last for up to 10 years.
Also, if you grind chia seeds into your meal, they will have a long shelf life (one or two years).
How To Store Chia Seeds Properly?
Chia seeds will last shorter if they are not stored properly. Proper storage is the most important factor if you want to extend the shelf life of your chia seeds. If you buy chia seeds that are not frozen you can store them in the pantry, but it is important to store them in a cool, dry and dark place. If chia seeds are exposed to direct sunlight, heat or moisture, they will go bad quickly.
Also, you should avoid clear bags or containers because the light can speed a degradation process. It is recommended to purchase chia seeds in vacuum sealed packages. As we have already said, you can store chia seeds in the pantry, but they will last for a shorter period of time. It is best to store chia seeds in an airtight container in the fridge. It is important that the temperature in the fridge is constant. You should purchase chia seeds from the refrigerator section and keep them constantly refrigerated.
Although you can store chia seeds in the pantry or in the fridge, it is best to store them in the freezer. If you want to store chia seeds for a long term you can freeze them in airtight containers. There is also a solution to purchase chia seeds that will last longer and to grind them into a meal, using a coffee grinder.
How To Tell if Chia Seeds Have Gone Bad?
Chia seeds have a mild or even neutral taste, so if the taste is bitter it means that your chia seeds have gone bad and you should discard them.
Also, if chia seeds are rancid, they will change in texture and they will be smelly.
Summary
As you have seen in this article, chia seeds are one of the healthiest foods on the planet. These seeds can last for too long if they are stored properly. You can store them for months and even years. Chia seeds don’t go bad quickly like flaxseed, for example.
Although they can be stored in a dry and cool place such as pantry, it is better to store them in the fridge. It won’t be hard to notice if chia seeds have gone bad. If chia seeds are smelly, you should discard them. But, after reading this article, we are pretty sure that you will use your chia seeds before they go bad.
