Do Chia seeds go bad, This a question that is commonly asked by those who are enthusiastic about seeds or those who have bought a lot of these seeds for their beverage needs. But before we dive into the chia seed’s shelf life and everything that goes into how long Chia seeds last in storage, let’s first take a look at what Chia seeds are.
What are Chia Seeds?
Chia seeds are small seeds produced by the Salvia Hispanica plant. Chia seeds are a full source of nutrition, they contain lots of omega 3, antioxidants needed by the body to minimize the bad effects of free radicals, are rich in fiber, and have their uniqueness in absorbing water up to 12 times their weight. So, these seeds are suitable to be added to drinks or puddings as additional nutrition.
When mixed with water, chia seeds can function as an egg substitute in vegan foods. So, there are many benefits and uniqueness of chia seeds. Here we will learn how long chia seeds last the chia seed’s shelf life and how to store them properly.
The Chia Seeds Shelf Life
Dried Chia Seeds have a long shelf life, usually, they can last in proper storage between 18 to 24 months. These are seeds with high antioxidant content such as chlorogenic acid, myricetin, caffeic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol.
These antioxidant compounds function to prevent the oil from going rancid too quickly so that the oil is more stable in storage. But chia seed’s shelf life is very dependent on how you store them. So, it is important to pay attention to the correct way to store chia seeds. Chia seeds should not be exposed to direct heat sources such as sunlight, and should not be stored in humid, hot places, to maintain their quality.
On the packaging there is a “best by” date, this is not an absolute sign of decay but can be a reference and guide in maintaining or being careful about chia seed decay. Usually, chia seeds are still safe and nutritious when consumed long after that date but with the note that the storage follows the correct storage method.
How to Store Chia Seeds Properly to Extend Its Shelf Life
Chia seeds have a long shelf life, but if stored incorrectly, they can spoil quickly. Follow these tips for storing chia seeds properly:
– Choose air-tight containers: Exposure to air can cause oxidation, which can cause the seeds to spoil prematurely.
– Store them in an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, and store them in a cool, dry, and dark place. You can store them in a cabinet, pantry, or other place away from heat sources, as this can damage their quality over time.
– Consider refrigerating them. For long-term storage in warm climates, refrigerating them or storing them in the refrigerator can help maintain their quality.
Signs of Spoilage
Do chia seeds go bad? Of course, they will go bad over time, but proper storage can extend Chia seeds’ shelf life. Are your chia seeds still good? You should be aware of some of the signs of chia seed spoilage so that you don’t eat them when they are no longer good.
Well, to make sure your chia seeds are still good, check for the following spoilage signs.
– Smell
Fresh chia seeds have a light and soft aroma. If it gives off a sharp or bitter odor, then this is an indication that it is spoiled.
– Taste
If the smell still doesn’t raise suspicion, try a little to see how it tastes. Fresh chia seeds have a nutty taste and no bitterness. If it tastes sour, or bitter, then this indicates that the chia seeds are gone bad.
– Appearance
In general, chia seeds look the same whether they are fresh or spoiled. However, an unusual cream or white color can be a sign of spoilage. Also pay attention to insects such as bed bugs, and larvae, if you find them together with chia seeds, then it indicates spoilage and is no longer safe to consume.
– Changes in texture
Changes in the texture of chia seeds should also be considered, for example, they feel hard or watery, or slimy. This indicates that the seeds have absorbed water and are starting to spoil.
How to Incorporate Into Your Diet
By extending the chia seeds shelf life, you can still use it in your diet every day. Here are some tips on how to consume them or include them in your daily diet so that you can reap the many health benefits of chia seeds.
1. Soaking
The best way to use chia seeds is to soak them first, you can soak them in various types of water including smoothies, syrups, or almond milk. Soak the chia seeds for 20 minutes or until they expand and absorb a lot of water.
Chia seeds are also great added to overnight oats or in puddings.
2. Baking
Another way to use chia seeds is to bake them with other foods, they will add texture to baked goods.
You can also grind them into a powder and add or mix it with certain flours. In Vegan recipes, chia seeds can be used as an egg substitute. Simply mix one tablespoon of ground chia seeds with three tablespoons of water, you can let it sit for a while to thicken.
3. Sprinkled over meals
For crunch, sprinkle chia seeds over salads like Healthy La Madeleine Pasta Salad, Zippy’s Mac Salad, and other salads. Sprinkle them over yogurt or cereal for extra fiber and crunch.
Adding chia seeds can add a nutty flavor, enrich omega-3s, and make them a healthy topping.
4. In beverages
Add them to refreshing lemonade. In Mexico, chia seeds are often added to drinks like “chia fresca,” a drink made from water, sweetener, and lemon or lime juice.
5. As a thickener in recipes
When you soak chia seeds, you’ll notice they turn into a gel, and this can be used as a neutral thickener in recipes. Great for adding to soups, smoothies, and gravies, without changing the flavor of your recipe. For those of you who like to make homemade jam, chia seed gel is also great as a base ingredient in making jam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chia seeds expire?
Yes, even though chia seeds’ shelf life is long, they can deteriorate over time, especially if not stored properly. In general, chia seeds can last up to 2 years from the time they are packaged.
How should chia seeds be stored after opening?
Opened chia seeds should be stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture. To extend their shelf life, you can store them in the refrigerator.
Are there any possible risks from consuming Chia Seeds?
In general, chia seeds are healthy and safe to consume. However, for those of you who are allergic to grains, you should consult a nutritionist. The high fiber content can cause gas in the stomach when you eat them in excessive amounts.
Do they need to be soaked before eating?
Soaking chia seeds is not necessary, but to speed up the absorption of nutrients, and easy to digest, soaking is important.
Can Chia Seeds be used for Weight loss, this is a good addition to a weight loss diet. High fiber and protein can be a good intake for losing weight.
