Shelf Life Tips
- How long do pumpkin seeds last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep pumpkin seeds in a cool, dry area.
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To maximize the shelf life of pumpkin seeds after opening, place in tightly sealed airtight container or heavy-duty plastic bag.
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How long do pumpkin seeds last at room temperature? Properly stored, pumpkin seeds will last for about 3 months at normal room temperature.
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Should you refrigerate pumpkin seeds? To further extend the shelf life of pumpkin seeds, keep them in the refrigerator.
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How long do pumpkin seeds last in the refrigerator? Pumpkin seeds will keep well for about 12 months in the refrigerator.
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Can you freeze pumpkin seeds? Yes, freeze pumpkin seeds in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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How long do pumpkin seeds last in the freezer? Properly stored, pumpkin seeds will maintain best quality for about 12 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - pumpkin seeds that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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Are pumpkin seeds safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided they are properly stored, the package is undamaged and there are no signs of spoilage (see below) - commercially packaged pumpkin seeds 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 pumpkin seeds will remain at peak quality.
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How to tell if pumpkin seeds are bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the pumpkin seeds: discard any that have an off smell or appearance; if mold appears, discard the pumpkin seeds.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
