Fun fact - did you know that buckwheat flour doesn’t contain wheat or gluten? I know, it’s a little misleading with “wheat” in its name. (Buckwheat flour is a pseudo-grain/pseudo cereal, meaning it has nutritional and physical properties mimicking grains without technically being a grain. Buckwheat is a type of fruit seed related to the rhubarb plant!) So when does buckwheat flour go bad? Once opened, buckwheat flour [...]
When Does Shortening (e.g. Crisco) Go Bad?
What helps make flaky, buttery crusts in things like croissants, pastries, and pie crusts? Fat - specifically, shortening! Shortening’s role in baking is to help deliver that crispy, flaky crust - but it can only do so when it’s fresh and maintains its original quality. So how do you know when shortening goes bad? Sealed shortening is generally good for at least two years when unopened and for around six months after [...]
When Does Olive Oil Go Bad?
A staple in Mediterranean diets and for general use, olive oil is one of the most popular cooking oils used today. If you’re like millions of other households and have a bottle of olive oil in your kitchen or pantry right now, you might be wondering at what point olive oil goes bad. Olive oil should last around 18-24 months when sealed and six months after it’s been opened. The “best by” or “use by” date should be your [...]
When Does Lard Go Bad?
Lard used to be one of the most popular cooking fats (especially during World War II when there was a butter shortage) but it’s not as common in most households these days. Lard is similar to butter in consistency but it contains less saturated fat, which might be surprising to you (it was to us!). One of the benefits of lard is its long shelf life, lasting six months at room temperature, one year in the refrigerator, and [...]
When Does Amaranth Flour Go Bad?
Gone are the days when the only type of flour you had to choose from was a version of wheat flour and hello, alternative and gluten-free flours! Amaranth flour is a particularly popular gluten-free flour, but you might be wondering how to store it, and does it go bad? Once opened, amaranth flour should last around two months when stored in the pantry and four months when stored in the freezer. If that seems [...]
When Does Butter Go Bad?
Butter is a staple in many households, and for good reason - after all, who doesn’t like a pat of butter on freshly baked bread or topping a baked potato? (If you're a vegan or are allergic to dairy, then look no further than coconut oil, a great butter substitute!) Butter typically won’t go bad very quickly - it lasts several weeks in the fridge even after being opened and can be out at room temperature for at least a few [...]
