Shelf Life Tips
- How long do yams last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - after purchasing, keep yams in a dry, dark area.
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Properly stored, raw yams will last for about 5 to 7 days at normal room temperature.
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To maximize the shelf life of yams, store in a cool (45-55° F; warmer than the refrigerator, but colder than normal room temperature) dark area; under those storage conditions, yams will last about 1 month.
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To further extend shelf life of yams, store in a loosely covered bag or basket to allow for air circulation.
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Should you refrigerate raw yams? Whole, raw yams should ideally not be refrigerated; doing so can give them a hard center and unpleasant taste.
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How long do raw yams last after they have been cut? Cover the cut, raw yams completely with cold water and refrigerate; use the cut yams within 24 hours.
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Can you freeze raw yams? Raw yams do not freeze well; to further extend the shelf life of yams, cook them first before freezing.
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To freeze cooked yams (1) Wash, peel and boil yams until tender; (2) Slice or mash yams and sprinkle with a small amount of lemon juice to prevent discoloration; (3) Let cool and place in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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How long do yams last once they have been cooked and stored in the freezer? Frozen cooked yams will stay at best quality for 10 to 12 months.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - foods kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How to tell if yams are bad or spoiled? Yams that are spoiling will typically become soft and discolored, often turning dark.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
