Whenever I buy Tahini paste from the market, a question always pops up in my mind can tahini paste go bad? After all, I don’t like to throw it anyways as it is one special Middle Eastern condiment, that is made from grinding hulled and lightly roasted sesame seeds.
Either served by itself or as a major ingredient in hummus, from falafel sandwiches to dainty modern salads, tahini paste can be eaten with anything as a dip or a spread. So, you know, I am simply in love with it.
So, I invested some time to store it well, and found out that I really need to put in the effort to keep it fresh, because, Yes, Tahini paste does go bad! Tahini is made from sesame seeds, which contain oils that can go rancid over time due to a number of factors like high temperature, humidity, etc.
And now, I am certain that you must be about How long does tahini last? How long does tahini last in the fridge? Where should I store my tahini? Fridge or cabinet? and many more such questions. Well, it was in my mind too and so to remember it easily, here is a table I created!
Tahini Shelf Life
Tahini’s shelf life depends on the story of how you made it, which means whether it is homemade or purchased and how it is stored. So, here are the details you need accordingly
| Type of Tahini | Place of Storage | Shelf life |
| Store-bought | Pantry | 4 to 12 months |
| Store-bought | Refrigerator | 6 to 12 months |
| Homemade | Pantry | 1 to 3 days |
| Homemade | Refrigerator | 1 week |
| Tahini sealed | Pantry | +6 months past the due date |
| Tahini sealed | Refrigerator | +12 months past the due date |
| Tahini opened | Pantry | 4 to 6 months |
| Tahini opened | Refrigerator | 6 to 12 months |
Does Tahini Need To Be Refrigerated?
Yes, it is very important to refrigerate the tahini after opening it. This is because it contains a lot of oil and once the seal is broken, there is a high chance that your tahini can go rancid soon. So, to save the tahini from going rancid, mix it well after opening, place the container’s lid tightly, and put the tahini jar in the refrigerator for the rest of its life.
But if you have not yet opened the seal of your tahini jar, the shelf-stable tahini will stay good on the shelf or in the pantry as well and won’t go rancid for the next 4 to 6 months. Storing tahini in the refrigerator is majorly recommended once its seal is broken and not before that. A few more details about tahini and its taste have been shared below for your benefit. Don’t forget to check it out.
How To Tell If Tahini Has Gone Bad?
To tell if tahini has gone bad, look for the following signs:
- A rancid or bitter smell.
- A change in color, such as darkening or discoloration.
- A thick or gritty texture.
- Separation of oil on the surface.
If the tahini exhibits any of these signs, it is likely spoiled and should not be consumed. It is always best to check the expiration date and store it properly to ensure freshness.
Does Tahini Taste Bitter?
Yes, tahini does taste bitter and it will always have a somewhat bitter taste because of the roasted seeds that are added to it. But sometimes, tahini from some brands tastes too bitter. That can be due to poorly roasted or over-roasted seeds or the poor source of the sesame seeds.
Does tahini go bad, and how do you know if it goes bad? Yes, it does and you also know how to tell if tahini has gone bad. And now, it’s time to have a look at the frequently asked questions related to tahini.
Pro Tips To Keep Store Tahini And Keep It Fresh For Longer Period of Time
There ere are several methods to store tahini to keep it fresh and extend its shelf life:
- Keep it in a Glass container: Glass containers also have tight-fitting lids, which can help keep the tahini fresh by preventing air and moisture from entering. Additionally, glass containers are easy to clean and can withstand the cold temperature of the refrigerator without cracking or warping.
- Refrigerate it: Tahini is perishable and can easily go rancid if left at room temperature for too long. Keeping it in the refrigerator will slow down the oxidation process and help preserve its freshness for a longer period of time.
- Stir it before using: Tahini can separate during storage, with oil rising to the top. Stirring it well before using will ensure a smooth texture and consistent flavor.
- Avoid freezing: Freezing tahini can change its texture and make it gritty.
- Check the expiration date: Always check the expiration date before purchasing or using tahini, and use it before the expiration date to ensure freshness.
By following these steps, you can help extend the shelf life of your tahini and ensure that it remains fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.
FAQs
Q1. Do sesame seeds go bad?
Ans. No, sesame seeds don’t have a shelf life and they do not spoil at all. But they do go rancid after some time. So, it’s better not to buy sesame seeds in bulk.
Q2. How long do sesame seeds last?
Ans. The shelf life of sesame seeds or when they go rancid is about 6 to 8 months when kept at room temperature and up to 1 year if stored in a refrigerated.
Q3. Does tahini need to be refrigerated?
Ans. Tahini Is Not need to be refrigerated But either you want to refrigerate it. You Are free to do.
Q4. What does rancid tahini taste like?
Ans. Organic tahini does not last too long at all. The longer shelf life of stored bought tahini can be because of the additional preservatives added in it to keep it safe from going bad.
Q5. What does Unpleasant Taste of Tahini suggest?
Ans. Tahini can have an unpleased taste due to several reasons:
1. It has a naturally unpleasant taste due to the roasting of seeds.
2. If seeds have been roasted too much, the level of unpleasant taste will increase.
3. It has gone rancid or has got molds in it that has caused the change in taste.Q
Q6. What does the Hardening Of Tahini indicate?
Ans. And with that, your knowledge of tahini, its constancy, storage, shelf life, taste, and everything else has been complete. Our work on supplying you with all kinds of food knowledge is still on. So, stay tuned to garb an abundance of information on new food items now and then.