Chia seeds, one of the best and healthy seeds to be added in various recipes, especially prepared for protein intake plans. Afterall,Chia seeds also contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to promote cardiovascular health in animal and human studies (lowering cholesterol, regulating heart rhythms and blood pressure, preventing blood clots, decreasing inflammation). (Reference 1) But, thats make me wonder, can chia seeds go bad?
But, unfortunately, Chia seeds do go bad and have a limited shelf life typically for a 2 year expiration date. Moreover, Chia seed shelf life is determined by a number of factors, including the Best By Date and how they are stored. With that being mentioned, there are several indicators that your chia seeds have gone bad and should be discarded which includes rancidity, bug infestation, and mold growth.
5 Warning Signs That Chia Seeds Gone Bad
So, now after knowing the answer of do chia seeds expire, it is now even more important to know some warning signs to detect its expiry.Afterall, when they can be healthy, the nutty flavour can go dangerous too.
- Because of their antioxidants, chia seeds are very resistant to rancidification. However, they can grow rancid if stored for an extended amount of time or exposed to high temperatures, a lot of fresh air, or direct sunshine.
- You’re probably storing chia seeds in the pantry, which is also where pantry pests prefer to congregate. If you detect bugs, eggs, or anything else similar in the bag, the seeds are gone.
- If moisture gets into the bag, mold can form in the chia seeds. If this occurs, the seeds are no longer safe to consume.
- Chia seeds are never wet. If you come into contact with any sliminess, they are no longer safe to use. You should get rid of them.
- Finally, if you open the jar of seeds and see that they are stuck together, stuck in the jar, or stuck in the bottom, throw them away. This is when they begin to lump and the seeds become unpalatable.
How to Store Chia Seeds
According to my findings, people frequently compare chia seed to basil seed or other seeds, particularly in terms of shelf life. Chia seeds are said to be more resistant to regular temperatures than other seeds. This is due to the large amount of antioxidants contained inside the seeds. So, if you leave a package of chia seed in your kitchen at room temperature for at least two years, they should be good. Storing chia seed may appear simplistic at first, but there are some important considerations to make.
- We’re all aware that mason jars are frequently connected with sweets. However, they may also be used to store chia seed. Because of the sealed closures, a glass jar keeps your seeds stable and avoids spoiling. Furthermore, because the glass elements are transparent, you can tell when the chia seed are going rancid.
- To scoop the seeds, avoid using a spoon. The spoon might transport dust or moisture to your seedlings. If you wish to scoop the seeds out of the container using a spoon, you should only have one spoon and it should be in the container with the seeds. This manner, we can prevent outside moisture and dust.
- Make certain that the container in which you store your chia seed is completely sealed. When air enters the container, it hastens the rancidification process.
- Instead of keeping all of the chia seeds together, freeze them in smaller containers for usage within the following few months. This will prevent you from opening the bag and allowing moisture or air inside it.
- Chia seeds should be stored in a cool, dry area away from sunlight and heat sources. When you open the packaging, ensure sure the seeds are always well wrapped.
What Are Our Shelf-Life Chia Seeds
When you buy chia seed at the store, the packaging will always be labelled ‘Best before’ rather than ‘Expiration date’. Chia seed have a long shelf life since they contain a lot of antioxidants. These antioxidants aid in the preservation and extension of their shelf life. They are also beneficial to your health because they neutralise free radicals, which may harm your cells. Chia seed’ antioxidants aid to protect the heart and liver. Most manufacturers typically have a two-year warranty. So, if you leave a package of chia seeds in your kitchen at room temperature for at least two years, they should be good.
| Chia Seeds | Room Temperature | The fridge |
| Dried | One to two years | 5-8 Years |
| Soaked | Not safe | 3-5 Years |
| Flour | 6 months | Not safe |
Can Using Expired Chia Seeds Make You Sick?
Consuming chia seed after their expiry date will not necessarily make you sick, as long as they do not exhibit indications of deterioration. If you ingest the seeds after they’ve deteriorated, you may get nausea and other symptoms of food poisoning. There are a few hazards to taking an excessive amount of chia seed over time.
- You face the danger of gastrointestinal difficulties, low blood pressure, or blood thinning if you ingest 2 teaspoons or more of chia seed on a daily basis for a lengthy period of time.
- Although allergic reactions are uncommon, if you are consuming Chia seed which have expired, you must discontinue use immediately.
- There is some suspicion that ingesting rancid fat may have negative long-term health repercussions, thus it is recommended to discard rotten chia seed
FAQs
Q1. Do chia seeds need to be refrigerated after opening?
Ans. The short answer is NO, you can keep chia seeds in your pantry at room temperature. Keep in mind, though, to store the seeds in airtight jars or resealable bags. You may preserve it in this manner for a year or two.
Q2. Can we drink chia seed in water daily?
Ans. Yes, this is among the simple ways to incorporate chia seed into your diet. To make chia water, chia seed should be steeped for 20 to 30 minutes in 4 cups (1 litre) of water, ideally cold water. To give your beverage some flavour, you may also squeeze in some lemon, lime, or orange.
References:
Our mission is to provide accurate and researched insights to our readers. Thus, we wish to share the references of the studies conducted on the subject matter for detailed read for our readers to refer:
Harvard TH Chan: The Nutrition Source
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