Should You Keep Nuts in the Refrigerator? Experts Weigh In

Nuts are a convenient and nutritious way to incorporate healthy fats and a wealth of other nutrients into your meals—chances are, you have a collection of various nuts in your kitchen. But is the fridge the best place to store them, or is the pantry sufficient?

Nutrition experts have clear recommendations for storing nuts to maintain their freshness and ensure they're always ready for your recipes—and it might not be where you currently keep them. Follow these tips to keep your nuts fresh and flavorful until the very last one.

Should You Keep Nuts in the Refrigerator—and Why?

The quick answer: Yes, nuts should be refrigerated. Here's why. The healthy monounsaturated fats that make nuts a staple on nutritious food lists can spoil rapidly at room temperature, causing nuts to develop an unpleasant smell and taste. This is far from ideal when preparing nut-based dishes.

"The unsaturated fats in nuts are more delicate, making them prone to spoilage," Reed explains. In warmer climates or seasons—or if nuts are exposed to light—they can turn rancid in just a month.

Refrigeration can slow this process, keeping nuts fresh longer. For even greater protection, freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage. "To maintain both the flavor and the health benefits of nuts, especially their heart-healthy fats, storing them in the freezer is the best approach," Bakovic advises.

How Long Can Nuts Be Stored?

The shelf life of nuts depends on your storage method and kitchen conditions—factors like humidity, light, and heat can reduce their freshness.

When stored at room temperature, nuts can remain fresh for one to three months, depending on the variety, whether they're roasted, and if they're kept in an airtight container away from light and heat. (Roasting can improve their room-temperature storage potential, Reed notes.)

Refrigerated nuts can stay fresh for up to six months before they risk turning rancid.

Nuts stored in the freezer can last up to a year, especially when placed in a freezer-safe container with minimal air to prevent freezer burn.

Is Storing Nuts at Room Temperature Safe?

It’s safe if you plan to consume them within a month or so—if you frequently use nuts for granola, oatmeal, or salads, keeping them at room temperature is likely fine.

However, if you won’t finish the package within that timeframe, consider refrigerating or freezing at least a portion of your nuts.

Additional Tips for Proper Nut Storage

To maximize freshness, use a tightly sealed, airtight container to minimize exposure to air and moisture. Store the container in a cool, dark place—the cooler, the better.

Can Eating Rancid Nuts Make You Sick?

The taste and odor will be unpleasant, potentially giving your food a sour or bitter flavor. Bakovic advises discarding nuts if they smell or taste off, though slightly stale nuts can be refreshed by toasting them in the oven.

While eating rancid nuts may not make you immediately ill, consuming them regularly over time could affect your health. "Research has explored the long-term effects of eating oxidized or rancid nuts, linking them to inflammation and increased cancer risk," Bakovic explains. "This is a crucial factor to consider."