How to Store Walnuts and Hazelnuts and Prevent Rancidity

Store shelled walnuts and hazelnuts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. Their high fat content makes them more prone to rancidity when exposed to heat, light, and oxygen. Nuts kept in their shells are better protected, so buy them in the shell when possible and shell them shortly before use.

How to store walnuts and hazelnuts

Limit their exposure to heat, light, and air to preserve freshness:

• Keep them in a tightly sealed, airtight container.
• Store the container in a cool place away from the stove and direct sunlight.
• Refrigerate or freeze shelled nuts that you will not use soon.
• Buy nuts in the shell when possible and shell them shortly before use.
• Store different types of nuts separately to prevent odors and flavors from transferring.

Common storage mistakes

Leaving shelled nuts in an open bowl on the counter exposes them to air and light and speeds up rancidity. Storing them near the stove exposes their oils to heat. A loose lid allows ongoing air exposure and reduces freshness. Rancid nuts can also affect the flavor of other nuts stored with them.

How can you tell if nuts are rancid?

Rancid walnuts and hazelnuts may have a sharp, paint-like odor and a bitter, unpleasant taste. Their normally mild, slightly sweet, oily aroma may also change. Discard nuts with an off odor or taste.

Can you freeze walnuts and hazelnuts?

Yes. Freezing slows the oxidation of the oils and can help preserve nuts for longer storage. Before freezing, put them in an airtight container or zip-top bag to protect them from moisture and odors. Let frozen nuts come to room temperature before opening the container to reduce condensation on the nuts. How long they keep depends on their freshness when purchased and the storage temperature. For a large quantity, keep a small portion in a container for everyday use and freeze the rest. Using smaller portions also means opening the storage container less often.

An airtight container and a cool, dark location help preserve walnuts and hazelnuts. Refrigerate or freeze them for longer storage, and buy them in the shell when possible to help delay rancidity.