Coconut flakes are like little pieces of tropical goodness that are made by flaking dried coconut meat. (And they help make a mean keto coconut cream pie…) But if you’ve opened a package of coconut flakes, how long do they last? It depends on the quality of the coconut flakes you have to begin with, and how you store them.
Coconut flakes can last up to 6 months after opening if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you don’t plan to eat them right away, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator, but this is not completely necessary.
What is the shelf life of coconut flakes?
Unopened, dried coconut flakes can last up to 6 months if stored properly. If unopened coconut flakes are stored in the refrigerator, they can last for up to a year.
Once opened, coconut flakes can last up to 6 months if kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or your refrigerator.
Unsulfured coconut flakes that are organic and unsweetened are my favorite (see our top 4 coconut flake brands). But since unsulfured coconut doesn’t contain any preservatives, it may not last as long as other brands. The trade-off for better quality is worth it in my opinion!
Comparison of coconut flakes shelf life
Shelf life – room temperature | Shelf life – refrigerator, unopened | Shelf life – refrigerator, opened | |
Coconut flakes | ~6 months | Up to 1 year or by “best by”/expiration date | 6 months |
Should coconut flakes be refrigerated after opening?
I recommend storing coconut flakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator after opening to extend their shelf life. Storing them in the refrigerator can help prevent moisture and humidity from affecting the quality of the product and reduce the risk of spoilage.
However, if you plan to use the coconut flakes quickly, storing them in a cool, dry place like your pantry may be sufficient. It is important to check the expiration date on the package and any storage instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the coconut flakes are still safe to consume.
How to tell if coconut flakes have gone bad
There are several signs to look for to determine if coconut flakes have gone bad.
If the coconut flakes have a rancid or sour smell or have an off or bitter taste, these are clear indications that they have gone bad.
Unless you have toasted coconut flakes, they should not be yellow or brown in color. If they are, and they were white when you first bought them, it’s best not to eat them. Also, if there are any visible signs of mold or discoloration, this is a clear sign that the coconut flakes are spoiled.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the coconut flakes to avoid any potential health risks. Always check the expiration date and storage instructions on the package before consuming coconut flakes.
Potential risks of eating coconut flakes that have been open for a long time
Eating coconut flakes that have been open for a long time can pose some potential health risks.
If the coconut flakes have been exposed to moisture, they can develop mold, which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems in some people. Consuming moldy food can also lead to food poisoning. This is why keeping your coconut flakes sealed tight is so important!
If the coconut flakes have gone rancid, they can cause gastrointestinal problems such as an upset stomach. Rancid food can also contain harmful free radicals that can damage cells and lead to inflammation – basically the opposite of what fresh coconut flakes are good for, which is fighting inflammation.
Additionally, if the coconut flakes have been stored improperly or for an extended period, they may lose their flavor and nutritional value. In addition to being stale and not very enjoyable, they may not provide the health benefits associated with fresh coconut flakes.
As you can see, it’s very important to follow the storage guidelines on the package and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming coconut flakes to avoid any of these potential health risks!
So, how long do coconut flakes last after opening?
Once opened, coconut flakes can last up to 6 months if stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, exposure to moisture or humidity can cause the flakes to spoil more quickly. To ensure your coconut flakes stay as fresh as possible, store them in the refrigerator or freezer for extended shelf life.
If you’re looking for a way to use up your coconut flakes, try these delicious coconut clusters!
FAQ
Yes, dried coconut flakes can go bad if they are not stored properly or if they are kept for an extended period. Signs of spoilage may include a rancid or sour smell, discoloration, mold, or an off taste. It’s important to follow proper storage guidelines and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming dried coconut flakes.
To refresh coconut flakes that have become stale or dry, you can place them in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes to rehydrate them, then drain and pat dry with a paper towel. Alternatively, you can spread them out on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for a few minutes to revive their flavor and crispiness.
Freshly grated coconut can last for up to 5-7 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. However, it is best to use it as soon as possible for the freshest flavor and texture. On the other hand, dried shredded or grated coconut can last up to six months in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container.
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