Expiration & Storage Tips
When does rice vermicelli expire?
Rice vermicelli has a relatively long shelf life in most home conditions. If unopened and stored in a cool, dry place like a pantry, it can easily last up to 2-3 years, even past its 'Best Before' date printed on the package. Once opened, it should be consumed within 4 to 5 months for best taste and quality. If you have cooked the rice vermicelli, it'll last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Freezing cooked rice vermicelli is not commonly done, but if you choose to do so, it can extend its life to about a month.
How do you tell if rice vermicelli is bad?
You can tell if rice vermicelli has gone bad or is starting to spoil through several signs. If it's dry, look for discoloration, dark specks, mold growth, or foul odor; any of these signs means that it's time to throw out the vermicelli. When it's cooked, if it smells off, has noticeable mold, or tastes sour or significantly different than usual, it's likely spoiled and should be discarded.
Tips for storing rice vermicelli to extend shelf life
• Always store the rice vermicelli in a cool, dry, and dark spot like a pantry or cupboard. The kitchen counter might seem convenient, but it's usually not the ideal place because of exposure to light and temperature fluctuations.
• If you've opened the package, ensure it's well sealed before storing it to prevent air from spoiling it. You can transfer it to an airtight container or resealable bag.
• Cooked rice vermicelli should be stored in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth. Use a sealed container for this.
• If freezing cooked rice vermicelli, use freezer bags or airtight containers. Remember to leave some space, as the noodles might expand a little.
• Label and date the containers before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. This will help you keep track of how long it's been stored.