Oats are a breakfast staple, right? Whether you're making a warm bowl of porridge, blending them into smoothies, or whipping up homemade granola bars, oats add nutrition and texture to your meals. But let's be honest-nothing ruins breakfast like stale oats with a musty smell. So, how do you keep your oats fresh for longer? If you love stocking up on oats but aren't sure how to store them properly, we've got you covered! Here are five simple ways to prolong their shelf life.
Also Read: Overnight Soaked Oats Versus Regular Bowl Of Oats - What's The Difference?
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Here Are 5 Easy Ways To Keep Oats Fresh For Longer:
1. Store In An Airtight Container
If you want your oats to stay fresh, keep them dry and sealed. Exposure to air can cause moisture buildup, making them go stale faster. Transfer your oats from the original packaging into an airtight container made of glass or high-quality plastic. Look for containers with rubber seals to prevent airflow completely.
2. Keep Them In A Cool, Dry Place
Temperature and humidity play a big role in food storage. A warm, humid kitchen can shorten the shelf life of oats, leading to spoilage or even mould. Store your oats in a pantry away from heat sources like the hob. If your kitchen tends to get warm, consider keeping them in the fridge-just make sure they're in a tightly sealed container to stop them from absorbing fridge odours.
3. Freeze Them
Bought oats in bulk but don't plan to use them soon? Freezing is the best option. Oats freeze well without losing flavour or texture. Place them in a freezer-safe airtight bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can last up to a year in the freezer. When you're ready to use them, thaw overnight at room temperature, they'll be as fresh as the day you bought them.
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4. Use Oxygen Absorbers
If you live in a humid climate, oxygen absorbers can help keep your oats fresh. These small packets, commonly used in long-term food storage, remove oxygen from the container and slow down spoilage. Just pop one into your sealed container, and your oats will stay fresh for longer.
5. Watch Out For Pests
Even with proper storage, oats can attract pests, especially if the container is frequently opened. Check regularly for tiny bugs, webbing, or signs of mould. If you spot anything unusual, it's best to discard the entire batch to avoid health risks. Keeping an eye on this can save you from potential contamination.
Also Read: Oats Turning Soggy? 5 Tips To Make Perfect Overnight Oats (Without Any Hassle!)
Final Tip: Always buy oats in quantities you can finish within a reasonable time. Proper storage goes a long way in keeping them fresh and flavourful!