Why Storing Nuts in the Pantry Isn't Ideal

Do you keep your nuts in the pantry? It may seem like the perfect spot—cool and dark, just like where you store your potatoes. But if you've been stashing your nuts there, it's time for a change. Your freezer is actually the best place to preserve their freshness.

Why the Pantry Falls Short

The pantry may be fine for short-term storage of unopened nut packages, but to extend their shelf life, move them to the freezer. Nuts are rich in unsaturated fats, which are more sensitive than saturated fats. This makes them prone to rancidity when exposed to air, light, moisture, or heat—resulting in spoiled nuts that can ruin both your recipes and your appetite.

The Optimal Way to Store Nuts

Nuts are sensitive to air, light, moisture, and heat, which makes them a bit demanding. Luckily, there's a perfect place in your kitchen to store them—the freezer. Bryan Roof, Editorial Director at Cook's Country, agrees that the freezer is ideal because it's dark and cold. The same applies to seeds.

But does freezing affect the taste? According to Amanda Baker Lemein, MS, RD, VP of Nutrition and Wellness at Golin, who collaborates with the National Peanut Board, freezing actually doesn't alter the flavor of nuts. Their low water content ensures that the cold temperatures have minimal effect.

Roof advises storing nuts in an airtight container, like a zip-top bag, and removing as much air as possible before sealing. Most raw, shelled nuts will stay fresh for 6 months to a year in the freezer, while unshelled varieties can last up to 1 1/2 years.

How to Make Freezer Storage Work for You

Storing nuts in the freezer might seem like a hassle, especially if your freezer is packed like mine. But considering how much you paid for those nuts, it's worth finding a solution to make freezer storage more convenient. Here are some tips to help you manage it better.

1. Label your container. Use tape and a permanent marker to mark your nuts with the storage date. If needed, add a "use-by" date to ensure you enjoy them at their best.
2. Create a designated space. Store your nuts in a specific area of your freezer for easy access. Place the ones you'll use most often near the front for convenience.
3. Choose the right container. An airtight container is ideal for freezing nuts. Jessie Carpenter, MS, RD, owner of Nutrition Prescription LLC, suggests using an airtight jar, zip-top bag, or other tightly sealed food-safe container. A vacuum sealer is another excellent option for preserving freshness.

The Bottom Line

For the best flavor and longevity, store your nuts in an airtight container in the freezer. Most nuts will stay fresh for up to a year. Be sure to label the container with its contents and the storage date, along with your preferred "use-by" date. Keep the container in a designated spot for easy access and grab what you need whenever you want, as frozen nuts can be enjoyed straight from the freezer.