Storing these products in the kitchen for months could be a big mistake

Flour, groats, and breadcrumbs; does it seem like they've been sitting in your kitchen cabinet for a lifetime? The good news is that these products indeed have a decent shelf life. The downside, however, is that they're not immortal and some of them deteriorate quicker than we tend to assume.

Quite a number of dry products lose their quality rapidly. Consider chips for instance - merely two days after opening and storing them in the kitchen cabinet and they become unpleasantly soft and unappetizing. This holds true for tea biscuits, crackers, and other types of cookies too. There are even products that outstay their expiration dates without showing obvious signs.

Breadcrumbs. Despite their extended longevity compared to ordinary bread, you must remember that breadcrumbs are, in one way or another, a bread product. Hence, they must be kept from moisture, often leading to mold. If stored correctly in a sealed container in a cool, dark place, this product can last up to six months.

Brown rice. Since brown rice may contain oil, its estimated shelf life is around six months. However, storing it in the refrigerator can help prolong this duration.

Spices. Contrary to popular belief, spices don't last forever either. They gradually lose their aroma and flavor, mainly if they are ground and exposed to the effects of air and light. It's preferable to purchase whole spices and grind them when needed.

Wheat flour. This variety can be stored for quite a long period - when kept at room temperature in a hermetically sealed container, it could last approximately 12 months. To keep the wheat flour for a longer period, consider storing it in the refrigerator or even freezing it - it would then remain edible for two years. This is the most effective long-term storage method for flour.

Cornmeal. Typically, it's recommended to store cornmeal for a maximum of a year. However, keeping it in a cool, dark, and dry location can enhance its longevity. Warm and damp conditions could accelerate mold growth. Avoid storing cornmeal close to appliances like the dishwasher, stove, or refrigerator, as these might affect its freshness.

Whole grain flour. This kind has a limited shelf life, mainly due to the presence of bran, endosperm, and germs. Ideally, it should be stored at room temperature for up to three months and up to 12 months when kept in the refrigerator or freezer. The same guidelines apply to oats and other varieties of whole-grain flour.