If you're a fan of whole grains, then you're probably eager to know which grains last the longest. Keeping a kitchen full of fresh and delicious grains is an excellent way to ensure that you always have healthy ingredients readily available to make delicious meals. Grains like rice, spelt, oats and rye are among several grains that will keep well when stored properly. Continue reading to learn more about these grains and the average shelf life of each.

The Average Shelf Life of Grains

When choosing grains that have the longest shelf life, there are two types of grain products to consider: whole intact grains and whole grain flours and meals. While both of these products are whole grains, whole grains that are still intact have a slightly longer shelf life than those that have been ground into flour. 

Whole Intact Grains

Whole intact grains are grains that still have their protective bran layer. Because of this added layer, the grains are better guarded against outside factors like moisture and temperature change and will last longer than ground grains. However, even with the protective layer, whole grains must be stored properly. Storing grains in an airtight container in a cool, dry area will keep them fresh for up to 6 months or up to 1 year when stored in the freezer.

Whole Grain Flours and Meals

Whole grain flours and meals will spoil a bit quicker than whole intact grains. However, when well-protected, they will still last a long time. When a grain is ground into flour, the protective barrier is broken up, and oxygen reaches all parts of the grain. Because of this, the grain is much more susceptible to outside factors and must be adequately stored in tightly sealed airtight containers. Properly keeping flours and meals will help them remain fresh for 1-3 months in a pantry and 2-6 months in the freezer.

Grains with the Longest Shelf Life

Long-lasting foods aren't just meant for emergencies. At Bob's Red Mill, we believe that every kitchen should be kept full of good-tasting and long-lasting whole foods like grains. To ensure that the items in your pantry will last more than a few weeks, it's essential that you choose grains with a long shelf life. Doing so will provide you with healthy ingredients that you can reach for whenever you require a wholesome meal. Continue reading to learn which grains will keep best in your kitchen pantry.

Rice

Rice is a staple grain. Used to create a variety of flavorful dishes, rice is a relatively inexpensive food that can be stored for long periods. When choosing which rice to purchase for longevity, it's important to note that not all rice varieties will remain fresh for the same amount of time. When safely stored, white, wild, jasmine and arborio rice can last up to 5 years. However, whole grain rice, like brown rice, will only keep for 6 months to 1 year due to the higher content of oil found in the grain. To make sure your rice stays as fresh as possible, store it away from other ingredients in an airtight container with a tight seal. Doing so will keep it safe from contaminants like moisture and bugs that could cause it to spoil faster.

Farro, Spelt and Rye

Farro, spelt and rye all have very similar shelf lives as the grains mentioned above and will last longer as a whole intact grain than as flour or meal. When purchasing these grains, it's essential that you buy them from a trusted source that stores them appropriately. Remember, grains don't start to go bad once they arrive in your kitchen. The factory and packaging that they're kept in can drastically affect the longevity of their shelf life. To help preserve the freshness of these grains, be sure to store them in cool, dry and temperature-controlled areas like your kitchen pantry. When stored as so, these grains can remain fresh for up to 6 months. When kept in the freezer, they will likely last for a year or more.

If you purchase these grains in flour form, know that their shelf life will be much shorter. When stored in an airtight container, rye, spelt and farro flour will last for 3 months in the pantry and 6 months in the freezer.

Rolled Oats

Rolled Oats are one of the most popular grains around. Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but they also have a long shelf life when compared to other grains. When kept in an airtight container in the pantry, oats will typically last 18-24 months. When stored in the freezer, they can last over 3 years. If you choose to purchase oats that have been ground into flour, their shelf life is significantly shorter, with most remaining fresh for under a year. 

Now that you better understand the shelf life of grains and which grains to stock your pantry with, it's time to head to the store and pick some up yourself. We can't wait to see what flavorful recipes you cook up!