How Long Does Regular Cornmeal Last?

Shelf Life Tips

• How long does a package of regular cornmeal last? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of regular cornmeal, store in a cool, dry area.
• How long does regular cornmeal last at room temperature? Properly stored, a package of regular cornmeal will generally stay at best quality for about 12 months at room temperature.
• To maximize the shelf life of regular cornmeal once the package is opened, transfer cornmeal to a covered airtight container or place original cornmeal bag in a resealable plastic freezer bag.
• Is regular cornmeal safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided it is properly stored and the package is undamaged - commercially packaged cornmeal will typically carry a " Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before", or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the cornmeal will remain at peak quality.
• Storage time shown is for best quality only - after that, the regular cornmeal's texture, color or flavor may change, but in most cases, it will still be safe to consume if it has been stored properly, the package is undamaged, and there are no signs of spoilage (see below).
• Can you keep regular cornmeal in the fridge or freezer? Yes, to further extend the shelf life of cornmeal, refrigerate or freeze it; place the cornmeal inside covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• How long does regular cornmeal last in the fridge? Regular cornmeal will maintain best quality for about 18 months in the refrigerator.
• How long does regular cornmeal last in the freezer? Properly stored, regular cornmeal will maintain best quality for about 24 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
• The freezer time shown is for best quality only — regular cornmeal that has been kept constantly frozen at 0° F will keep safe indefinitely.
• How can you tell if regular cornmeal is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the regular cornmeal: if the regular cornmeal develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if insects appear, it should be discarded.

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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here