If you’re a fan of comfort food classics like cornbread, corn muffins, hush puppies and johnny cakes, using cornmeal is going to be part of your recipe. But Does Cornmeal Go Bad? What is the shelf life of cornmeal and do those pantry staples go bad after the “best by date” printed on the package?
Today we will share how long your cornmeal will last, the signs that your cornmeal has gone off, and whether freezing cornmeal can extend its life.
Table of Contents
Does Cornmeal Go Bad?
Yes, cornmeal can go bad because it contains oils from the corn that can become rancid over time. Exposure to air and moisture can further accelerate this process.
How Can You Tell If Cornmeal Has Gone Bad?
Cornmeal, like other food items, can only go well if stored properly. Here are some signs you should look for to determine if your cornmeal has gone bad:
- Mold: If you see white, red, green, or blue mold growing on or around the cornmeal, it’s a clear sign that the cornmeal has spoiled and needs to be discarded.
- Bad Odor: When you open your container of cornmeal, take a moment to smell it. A rancid smell or bad odor strongly indicates that your cornmeal has gone bad.
- Change in Color: Color changes could also indicate spoilage. If your cornmeal appears discolored or looks different than when you purchased it, discard it.
- Bugs or Insect Infestation: If you notice dead insects within the cornmeal, it’s a sure sign that it is no longer good for consumption.
- Loss of Freshness: Degerminated cornmeal doesn’t usually go rancid but loses its flavor and freshness over time. If your cornmeal tastes stale or lacks its usual flavor, it might be time to buy new cornmeal.
Are Black Specks In Cornmeal Normal?
The Black Specks in your cornmeal are likely to be bits of the pericarp, the skin around the corn kernel, or remnants of the hilar or hull, which are natural parts of the grain.
These dark specks might also be particles of germs left during the grinding process. All these elements are normal and not harmful.
Does Unopened Cornmeal Go Bad?
Unopened cornmeal, when properly stored, can stay perfectly fine for an extended period. Whether it’s degerminated or whole-grain, the bag of cornmeal has a decent shelf life.
Degerminated cornmeal retains its quality for up to a year past its date if kept at room temperature, while whole-grain cornmeal lasts well until its best-by-date plus an additional three months when unopened.
How Long Does Cornmeal Last Once Opened?
Cornmeal shelf life can vary greatly depending on the type and how it’s stored. For example, the whole grain type has a shorter lifespan because of its increased oil content, which can become rancid faster.
Typically, if stored correctly in a cool, dry place, whole-grain cornmeal has a shelf life of up to one year.
On the other hand, de-germinated cornmeal, which has the germ and bran removed, can last longer, often up to two years. Once opened, the shelf life may decrease, so it’s best to use it as soon as possible for optimal freshness.
Can You Eat Cornmeal After Expiration Date?
Consuming expired cornmeal is not advisable. Over time, cornmeal, especially if improperly stored, is prone to being Infested By Insects and developing mold.
This is particularly true for whole grain cornmeal, which has a shorter shelf life than degerminated varieties.
How Do You Store Cornmeal Long Term?
With these steps, you can ensure the long-term storage of cornmeal successfully.
- Start with fresh cornmeal: Ensure your cornmeal is fresh before you begin the storing process.
- Use Baking Soda: Add a bit of baking soda to the cornmeal. This acts as a preservative and helps keep insects away.
- Choose the right storage container: The container should be airtight to remove as much air as possible.
- Find a dark and dry place: Store the cornmeal in a pantry or a cabinet that doesn’t receive direct sunlight or heat: moisture and light speed up the spoilage process.
- Regularly check: Periodically check your cornmeal to ensure it remains fresh and free from any signs of spoilage.
How Long Will Cornmeal Last In The Freezer?
Yes, you can freeze cornmeal in an airtight container freezer bag to extend its shelf life. After freezing, the frozen cornmeal retains its quality indefinitely but is best used within a year for optimal flavor.
FAQ’S
Although both are made from corn; corn flour and corn meal differ in texture and the part of the corn used to make them.
Cornmeal is made by grinding whole dried corn kernels into a coarse or medium texture. It’s akin to finely ground cornmeal but still retains a certain grittiness.
On the other hand, corn flour is milled to a very fine consistency, almost powder-like, offering a smoother texture when used in cooking or baking.
Cornmeal, a versatile pantry item, has many uses that can be incorporated into various delicious foods. Here are some ways you can use cornmeal:
Baking: Cornmeal can be used in a variety of baked goods. It imparts a distinctive texture and taste to muffins, scones, biscuits, and cookies. It’s also a key ingredient in thyme-cornmeal pound cake and ginger-fig tart with a cornmeal crust.
Hot Cereal: Cornmeal can be cooked into a hot cereal, similar to traditional breakfast in many cultures.
Corn Grits: Also known as polenta in Italian cuisine, corn grits are another popular dish made from cornmeal. They can be served as a side dish or main course.
Corn Porridge: This is another comforting dish made from cornmeal. It’s often sweetened and served as a dessert or breakfast.
Fried Foods: Cornmeal forms a delicious, crispy crust on fried foods. It’s commonly used for coating fish, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken, Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets, and vegetables like green Tomatoes.
Store Cornmeal For Longer Shelf Life
Cornmeal can spoil due to its oil content, exposure to air and moisture, showing signs like mold, odor change, color shift, insects, and loss of freshness. Properly stored unopened cornmeal lasts long.
Whole-grain cornmeal, once opened, lasts shorter than degerminated. Freezing can prolong shelf life, best within a year.
