How Long Does Stone Ground Cornmeal Last?

CORNMEAL, COMMERCIALLY PACKAGED OR PURCHASED IN BULK - STONE GROUND

Pantry
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1 month
Refrigerator
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2-3 months
Freezer
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4-6 months

 

Shelf Life Tips

  • How long does a package of stone ground cornmeal last? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - to maximize the shelf life of stone ground cornmeal, store in a cool, dry area.
  • How long does stone ground cornmeal last at room temperature? Properly stored, a package of stone ground cornmeal will generally stay at best quality for about 1 month at room temperature.
  • To maximize the shelf life of stone ground 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 stone ground 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 stone ground 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 stone ground 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 stone ground cornmeal last in the fridge? Stone ground cornmeal will maintain best quality for about 3 months in the refrigerator.
  • How long does stone ground cornmeal last in the freezer? Properly stored, stone ground cornmeal will maintain best quality for about 6 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
  • The freezer time shown is for best quality only — stone ground cornmeal that has been kept constantly frozen at 0° F will keep safe indefinitely.
  • How can you tell if stone ground cornmeal is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the stone ground cornmeal: if the stone ground cornmeal develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if insects appear, it should be discarded.

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