Expiration & Storage Tips
When does rice expire?
Unopened white, wild, Arborio, jasmine and basmati rice can keep almost indefinitely, but opened bags have a shelf life of 4-5 years. Whole-grain rice, like brown or black rice, can last up to 6 months in a pantry, but can go up to a year or two if in the freezer. Once cooked, rice should be consumed in 4 to 6 days if stored in fridge, or within two months if stored in freezer.
How do you tell if rice is bad?
Look out for visible molds, discoloration or a rancid smell, all of which suggest the rice is no longer good. If the rice has been sitting in moisture or humidity, it attracts bacteria which will cause the rice grain to harden and darken. Also, cooked rice should not have a sour smell or a slimy texture, which means it’s gone bad.
Tips for storing rice to extend shelf life
• Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to keep your rice fresh whether it's in the pantry, fridge, or freezer. Make sure that the place is cool, dry and dark.
• Avoid storing rice in a humid area since humidity can attract bacteria.
• If you've cooked rice, try to cool it to room temperature within an hour before refrigerating to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
• When freezing rice, you can better maintain its quality by portioning it out into individual serving sizes before freezing.
• While freezing whole grain rice can extend its life, it’s best to use these kinds before they become rancid.