Expiration & Storage Tips
When does wild rice expire?
When stored properly, unopened packages of wild rice have an indefinite shelf life. Once the package has been opened, wild rice can retain its quality for about 1 year, provided that it is stored correctly in a cool, dark and dry place. However, I always suggest checking the package's expiration date just in case. That being said, if you've stored the rice in the freezer, it can still maintain its quality for a year or possibly more. It is recommended that you store any leftover cooked wild rice in the refrigerator and consume it within 4-6 days.
How do you tell if wild rice is bad?
A very distinctive sign that the dried wild rice has spoiled would be a noticeable change in its odor. It may develop a rancid or off smell which is easy to identify. Other tell-tale signs include changes in color or appearance, such as any noticeable growth of mold on the grains. Now, when it comes to cooked wild rice, it will usually take on a lumpy texture and an unpleasant smell when it goes bad. If you are unsure, a simple taste test (but don't swallow it if it tastes off!) can confirm your suspicion. Always when in doubt, throw it out.
Tips for storing wild rice to extend shelf life
• Keep the wild rice in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
• Store it in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard.
• If the package is opened, try to use the rice within a year.
• For cooked wild rice, store it in a covered container in the refrigerator and consume within 4-6 days.
• If you want to extend the shelf life of wild rice, consider freezing. To freeze uncooked wild rice, just package it in an airtight container or freezer bag. For cooked rice, let it cool completely, package in airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze. To use frozen cooked wild rice, defrost overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat.