How Long Does Flaxseed Last? Does It Go Bad?

Are you completely confused about whether or not flaxseed lasts forever?

Do you have a bag of it sitting in your cupboard and are unsure how to tell if it has gone bad?

Well, let me assure you that there is no need to be perplexed any longer!

In this guide, I’m going to provide an answer to the age-old question: how long does flaxseed last and does it go bad?

You’ll gain insight into shelf-life, storage tips, as well as learn all about spoilage indicators so that you know precisely when its time for a new batch of flaxseeds.

By the end of this article, there will be zero confusion left in regards to the longevity of these nutritious seeds.

What is Flaxseed?

Flaxseed is a type of seed that comes from the flax plant.

The flax plant is a member of the Linum family, which is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa.

The flax plant produces long, thin fibers that are used to make linen fabric.

Flaxseed is the small, dark brown or golden-colored seed that comes from the flax plant.

These seeds are high in fiber and contain important omega-3 fatty acids.

What are The Benefits of Flaxseed?

Flaxseed is a rich source of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.

These nutrients offer a host of health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and better heart health.

Fiber is an important nutrient for digestive health.

It helps add bulk to stool and promotes regularity.

Flaxseed is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance that slows down digestion.

This can help you feel full after eating and may reduce the number of calories you consume throughout the day.

Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, does not dissolve in water.

It passes through your digestive system mostly intact, helping to add bulk to stool and promote regularity.

Flaxseed is also a good source of antioxidants.

These nutrients scavenge harmful toxins and byproducts that can damage cells, leading to inflammation.

The omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseed are also anti-inflammatory.

In fact, these fatty acids have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and arthritis.

How Long Does Flaxseed Last?

Flaxseed is a nutritious addition to any diet, and it can last for a long time if stored properly.

But how long does flaxseed last?

The shelf life of flaxseed depends on a few factors, including how it is packaged and how it is stored.

Flaxseed that is ground into powder form will last longer than whole flaxseeds.

And flaxseed that is kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place will last longer than flaxseed that is exposed to light or heat.

Generally speaking, ground flaxseed will last for about six months before it starts to go bad.

Whole flaxseeds will last for about one year before they start to go bad.

But if you store your flaxseed in the fridge, it can last for two years or more.

So, if you want your flaxseed to last as long as possible, be sure to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place like the fridge.

And if you want your flaxseed to last even longer, grind it into powder form before storing it.

Can You Freeze Flaxseed?

You can freeze flaxseed, but it’s not necessary.

Flaxseed is a very shelf-stable food, so freezing it won’t extend its shelf life by much.

The main reason to freeze flaxseed is to prevent it from going bad.

Flaxseed has a high fat content, and fat is susceptible to oxidation.

Oxidation causes the fats in flaxseed to go rancid, and rancid fats can cause digestive problems.

Freezing flaxseed will prevent the fats from oxidizing and going rancid.

To freeze flaxseed, simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer.

It’s best to use frozen flaxseed within six months.

How Can You Tell If Flaxseed Has Gone Bad?

Flaxseed is a type of seed that comes from the flax plant.

These seeds are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which makes them a popular food choice for those looking to improve their health.

However, like all foods, flaxseed can go bad if it is not stored properly.

Here are a few signs to look for that indicate your flaxseed has gone bad:

The first sign that your flaxseed has gone bad is the color.

Flaxseed should be a light brown color.

If the seeds are darker than this, it is an indication that they have gone bad.

Another sign to look for is mold.

If you see any mold on the flaxseed, it is best to thrown it out as this can cause illness if consumed.

Another way to tell if flaxseed has gone bad is by the smell.

Fresh flaxseed will have a slight nutty smell.

If the seeds smell rancid or off, it is an indication that they have gone bad and should not be eaten.

Finally, if the seeds are hard or difficult to chew, this is another sign that they have gone bad and should be discarded.

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to throw out the flaxseed as consuming it could make you sick.

When storing flaxseed, be sure to keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

This will help to extend its shelf life so you can enjoy it for longer.

Conclusion

We’ve answered some common questions about flaxseed and whether or not it goes bad.

Flaxseed is a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, and can be stored for long periods of time.

However, it’s important to keep an eye on flaxseed for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or a change in color or odor.

If you think your flaxseed has gone bad, it’s best to throw it out to be on the safe side.