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Shelf Life of Common Food Storage Items

When it comes to food storage, shelf life can be tricky. How can you know when your items have expired or if they are still good to eat? Experienced food storage individuals know that it is important to continually rotate your storage in order to effectively use your food and eliminate, or at least reduce, waste. However, sometimes it just seems impossible to use all your storage in a timely manner, which can leave you uneasy about what to eat and what to throw out.

It may surprise you to find that many items last longer than you might expect. For example, did you know that honey, corn syrup, and sugar can store indefinitely if stored correctly in tight containers and a dry, cool environment? Of course, storing all items in a food supply this way will ensure safer, quality foods. Unfortunately, all items don’t have quite as long of a shelf life. If you’re looking for answers on specific items that are often found in food storage, take a look at the list below.

  • Dry cereal, unopened: 1 year (for best quality) / Opened: 3 - 4 months
  • Uncooked Oats: 1 year in pantry or freezer
  • Whole Wheat Flour: 6 - 8 months in fridge / 2 years in freezer
  • All-Purpose Flour: 1 year in pantry / 2 years in fridge or freezer