How Long Do Sesame Seeds Last?

Do sesame seeds go bad? How long does tahini last? The shelf life of sesame seeds depends upon a variety of factors, such as the Best By Date, whether they are roasted or salted and how they are stored. Sesame seeds are rich in calcium, iron and saturated fat [1]. They are most often seen sprinkled on top of breads or bagels or ground into creamy butter called tahini. They can be eaten raw, but are usually roasted to eliminate the bitter flavor. The shelf life of tahini and sesame seeds is so long that many ask do sesame seeds goes bad, does tahini go bad?

When properly stored, the shelf life of sesame seeds is approximately...

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Sesame Seeds Expiration Date

Opened/Unopened Pantry Fridge/Freezer
Past Printed Date Past Printed Date
Sesame Seeds (Raw) last 6-12 Months 1 Year
Roasted Sesame Seeds last 1-3 Years 1-3 Years
Tahini lasts 4-6 Months 6-12 Months
Tahini Paste lasts 4-6 Months 6-12 Months

Of course, sesame seeds and tahini last for a shorter period of time if they are not stored properly. But remember that sesame seeds, like a lot of other seeds, usually have a best by date and not an expiration date. Because of this, you can safely use them beyond their best by date.

How to tell if Sesame Seeds are bad, rotten or spoiled?

Practicing proper hygiene and food safety techniques will help prevent foodborne illness.

Since sesame seeds have a long shelf life if kept dry, it is hard to tell if they have gone bad. The best way is by smell - they will start to smell rancid because of the natural oils breaking down. Once they start to smell they also taste pretty nasty.

When tahini goes bad, it is also given away by the rancid odor that develops. Tahini will naturally separate and become oily on top, this oil should be mixed back in before use (or you can turn the jar upside down for a few days).

For a long term option, both seeds and meal can be frozen in an airtight container.

There are, of course, certain health risks associated with spoiled foods so always remember to practice food safety and enjoy your foods before their shelf life has expired!

How to store Sesame Seeds to extend their shelf life?

The best way to store sesame seeds is in an airtight container or bag in the pantry or another cool dark place with a constant temperature.

Tahini should be refrigerated in an airtight container after opening, much like natural peanut butter, in order to keep out moisture and other contaminants.

For a long term option, sesame seeds can be frozen in an airtight container.

Some benefits of proper food storage include eating healthier, cutting food costs and helping the environment by avoiding waste.

How long are Sesame Seeds good for when prepared in a dish?

How long do sesame seeds last? That depends. How long does bread last? In general, seeds will only last as long as the quickest expiring ingredient in the recipe.

What are our shelf life resources?

In determining how long Sesame Seeds lasts, our content incorporates research from multiple resources, including the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food & Drug Administration. In addition, we scoured the web for informative articles and reports related to food safety, food storage and the shelf life of Sesame Seeds.

*An important note about expiration dates...

Although the Sesame Seeds shelf life information on Eat By Date is generally reliable, please remember that individual cases will vary and that our advice should only be taken as an opinion and not a replacement for your health care professional. Please eat responsibly!

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With oven-safe glass and water-tight lids, these food storage containers are ready for action! Not a Prime Member? Try a 30-day free trial today!

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