Expiration & Storage Tips
When does peanut oil expire?
For an unopened bottle of peanut oil stored in a cool, dark place, you can expect it to last for around 1-2 years past the printed expiration date. However, once opened, peanut oil should ideally be used up within 6 months. Beyond this, the quality may begin to decline, but it can still be safe to use up to a year if stored properly. If you choose to freeze your peanut oil (not a common practice), it can last indefinitely, but might compromise the flavor and consistency when thawed.
How do you tell if peanut oil is bad?
When detecting whether your peanut oil has spoiled, give it a good sniff. If it has a sour or off smell, it has likely gone bad. Additionally, if the oil appears darker than usual or has a sticky or gummy texture, it's time to throw it away. A quick taste test (only a tiny bit) can also help; toss it if there's any sourness or rancid flavor.
Tips for storing peanut oil to extend shelf life
• Always store your peanut oil in a cool, dark place. Heat and light can speed up the spoilage process. The pantry or a dark cabinet is an ideal spot.
• After each use, make sure your oil bottle is sealed tightly to prevent exposure to air, which can also escalate spoilage.
• While not common, you can freeze peanut oil to extend its shelf life. However, remember to thaw it in the refrigerator and shake well before use to restore its consistency and flavor.
• Use clean, dry utensils to extract oil if you're not pouring it directly. This can prevent bacterial contamination.
• Consider keeping a smaller bottle for daily use and the bulk of your supply stored separately to minimize exposure to air, light, and heat.