Brown rice has a shorter shelf life than white rice, but exactly how long it lasts depends on how it is stored. Here are some quick answers on the shelf life of brown rice:
– Uncooked brown rice will last 6-12 months past the printed date if stored properly in a cool, dark place.
– The fridge will extend the shelf life of brown rice. It will last up to 2 years in the fridge.
– Frozen brown rice can be kept indefinitely. It will still be safe to eat, but quality will start declining after 1-2 years.
– Cooked brown rice lasts 3-5 days in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 2 days for maximum freshness.
– Signs brown rice has gone bad include a foul odor, very dry texture, visible mold, and bitter taste.
Factors That Shorten Shelf Life
There are a few key factors that contribute to brown rice going bad more quickly:
High Oil Content
Brown rice is a whole grain that retains its nutritious bran and germ. This gives it a higher oil content than more refined white rice. The oil in brown rice can go rancid over time, causing it to spoil faster. Proper storage is important for minimizing this.
Moisture
Any residual moisture from processing can spur bacterial growth and mold. Storing brown rice in an airtight container helps prevent exposure to excess moisture.
Warm Temperatures
Heat and humidity create the perfect environment for brown rice to spoil. Storing it in a cool, dry place like the pantry or fridge extends shelf life.
Exposure to Air
When oxygen is able to reach the brown rice, it accelerates the process of oxidation that causes it to go bad. Using air-tight packaging prevents excess air exposure.
How to Store Brown Rice
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness and extending the shelf life of brown rice. Here are some tips:
Use Air-Tight Containers
After purchasing brown rice, transfer it to an airtight container like a mason jar or resealable plastic bag. This prevents air and moisture from getting in. Oxygen absorbers can be added to help soak up any air in the container.
Keep Containers in Cool, Dry Place
The ideal place to store brown rice is in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard. Avoid warm spots near appliances or in direct sunlight. Temperatures between 50-70°F are best.
Don’t Store Directly in Fridge
While the fridge extends shelf life, the cold dry air can dry out brown rice quicker. It’s best stored in an airtight container at room temp, and then moved to the fridge after opening.
Break Up Bulk Packages
Large bags of brown rice allow a lot of air exposure. Break it into smaller portions in airtight containers right away for maximum freshness.
Avoid Moisture During Storage
Ensure containers are fully sealed and free of leaks. Moisture can accelerate spoilage. Rice stored in damp environments may only last 4-5 months before mold growth.
Use Oldest Rice First
Practice first in, first out when using brown rice. Use oldest packages before newer ones to ensure nothing gets forgotten in the back.
How to Tell if Brown Rice Has Gone Bad
Here are some signs that indicate your brown rice has spoiled and should be discarded:
Appearance
– Mold visible on rice
– White or black specks mixed in
– Very dry and flaky texture
– Extremely dark and dull color
Smell
– Sour, rancid, or rotten odor
– Very musty smell
– Smells like chemicals
Taste
– Bitter, unpleasant taste
– Very bland, lacking any smell or taste
– Tastes moldy or rancid
Expiration Date Passed
Brown rice stored properly should last 6-12 months past the printed expiration date. If it’s significantly past the date, it’s best to discard.
How Long Does Cooked Brown Rice Last?
Cooked brown rice has a shorter shelf life than dry rice due to its high moisture content. Here’s how long it lasts:
Fridge
Cooked brown rice can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. It’s best to eat it within 2 days for maximum freshness. Store in an airtight container.
Freezer
Cooked brown rice can be frozen for 3 to 6 months. Excess moisture should be patted off before freezing for best quality.
Room Temperature
It’s not recommended to leave cooked brown rice out. It should always be refrigerated and is best if eaten within a day.
Reheating Brown Rice
To safely reheat cooked brown rice:
– Use the fridge or freezer, not room temperature rice.
– Reheat on the stove, in the microwave, or oven until piping hot.
– Bring soupy rice to a boil when reheating to reduce moisture.
– Only reheat once for food safety.
– Discard if rice smells bad or feels slimy.
– Consume reheated rice within 1-2 days.
Does Frozen Brown Rice Go Bad?
Frozen brown rice lasts indefinitely from a food safety standpoint if stored at 0°F. However, the quality will start to decline after 1-2 years in the freezer due to effects of oxidation and freezer burn. It’s best to consume frozen brown rice within 6 months to a year for optimal flavor and texture.
Signs frozen brown rice may be past its prime and should be discarded:
– Dry, crumbly texture
– Strange odor when thawed
– Mold, ice crystals or freezer burn spots
– Loss of softness – very tough
– Off or rancid taste
Can You Eat Brown Rice That Smells Bad?
No, you should never eat brown rice that smells foul or rancid. A bad odor is a definite sign that bacteria may be growing or the rice has spoiled. Consuming bad brown rice that has dangerous microbial growth can cause serious food poisoning. Always discard brown rice that has an unpleasant or yeasty smell.
Does Boiling Brown Rice Extend Shelf Life?
Boiling brown rice can extend its shelf life by reducing bacteria on the surface. According to the FDA, boiling rice for 3-5 minutes before refrigerating or freezing can lower the risk of foodborne illness. However, this only extends the shelf life by a few days. Ultimately, proper storage is more important for preserving freshness long-term.
Can You Freeze Brown Rice After It’s Cooked?
Yes, cooked brown rice can safely be frozen to extend its shelf life. Be sure to freeze it immediately after cooking. Allowing the rice to cool thoroughly on the counter first allows bacteria to multiply. Spread rice out on a sheet pan and freeze until solid before transferring to airtight bags or containers. Properly frozen brown rice will keep for 3-6 months.
Does Refrigerating Brown Rice Make It Last Longer?
Refrigerating brown rice helps extend its shelf life. According to the USDA, uncooked brown rice can last up to 2 years in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. The chilly environment retards bacterial growth and enzymatic activity that causes food spoilage. For even longer storage, the freezer provides indefinite shelf life.
Does Brown Rice Go Bad If Not Refrigerated After Opening?
Yes, brown rice can go bad if left unrefrigerated after opening the package. Exposure to air starts the process of oxidation, causing the oils in brown rice to go rancid faster. Opened brown rice left in the pantry should be used within 3-4 months. For maximum freshness, store opened brown rice in the fridge or freezer.
Conclusion
When stored properly in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, uncooked brown rice can last 6 to 12 months past its printed date before going bad. The refrigerator extends its shelf life up to 2 years, while the freezer allows indefinite storage. Cooked brown rice only lasts 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Check brown rice for mold, foul odors, or bitter taste to determine if it has spoiled and needs to be discarded. Following tips for proper storage and reheating will help brown rice stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
| Storage Method | Uncooked Brown Rice Shelf Life | Cooked Brown Rice Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry | 6-12 months past printed date | Don’t store at room temp |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 years | 3-5 days |
| Freezer | Indefinite | 3-6 months |