Do Hemp Seeds Go Bad and Should You Eat Expired Ones?

“Do hemp seeds go bad?” is a hot topic for anyone into healthy eating. Unfortunately, they do go bad at some point. But worry not; you can keep them fresh just by storing them correctly.

This article will guide you on how to keep your hemp seeds fresh and how they compare with other seeds. Stick around!

Do Hemp Seeds Go Bad at all?

Yes, hemp seeds can go bad. They can become rancid due to their high-fat content, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Consuming spoiled hemp seeds can be unpleasant and potentially harmful. Therefore, always make sure they are fresh with no spoilage signs.

Hemp seeds’ benefits are immense because they are super nutritious. However, if you don’t store them correctly, they might go bad quickly. 

You may be wondering, “Do hemp seeds go bad if not refrigerated?” Yes, they do. If you leave them out, they can last a few weeks, but it’s best to keep them cool. 

But how long can hemp seeds stay unrefrigerated? They usually stay good for about two to four weeks at room temperature.

People also ask, “Do hemp seeds go bad in the freezer?” Freezing hemp seeds can make them last much longer. In my experience, they can stay good for up to a year.

Here, I want to discuss another query, “Do unopened hemp seeds go bad?” Unopened hemp seeds last longer than opened ones. If you store them in the pantry, they might last 9 to 12 months. But, once opened, their shelf life reduces.

Here’s a handy table to help you remember how long hemp seeds last.

Do Industrial Hemp Seeds Go Bad?

Yes, industrial hemp seeds can also go bad. Like regular hemp seeds, they can turn rancid due to their oil content. These seeds can last up to a year if kept in a dry place. However, for optimal freshness, it’s best to use them within three to six months. 

Wondering, “Why Do Industrial Hemp Seeds Go Bad?” Well, the reasons are:

Improper Storage

Industrial hemp seeds can spoil if not stored correctly. If you leave them in a warm, humid place, they can go bad quickly. Warmth and moisture are the enemies of hemp seeds. To keep them fresh, store them in a sealed container in a dry place.

Exposure to Air

When hemp seeds are exposed to air, they can go bad faster. Air can cause them to become stale and lose their nutrients. This is why it’s important to keep them in an airtight container. If you buy hemp seeds in bulk, transfer them to a smaller container as you use them to reduce their exposure to air.

Light Exposure

Light can also cause hemp seeds to spoil. If they are stored in clear containers or left out in the open, the light can damage them. This is why it’s best to keep them in a dark place or use opaque containers. 

Keeping them away from light helps preserve their freshness and nutritional value.

Humidity and Moisture

Humidity and moisture are harmful to hemp seeds. If they get wet or are stored in a damp place, they can develop mold or become rancid. Always keep them dry. Consider using silica gel packets in your storage container to absorb excess moisture.

Do Raw Shelled Hemp Seeds Go Bad?

Yes, raw-shelled hemp seeds can go bad if not stored properly. They are super rich in healthy fats, which can spoil over time. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. Refrigeration or freezing can help extend their shelf life. 

Always check for off smells or changes in taste to know if they’ve gone bad.

How Long Do Raw Shelled Hemp Seeds Last?

Raw-shelled hemp seeds can last several months to a year, depending on how they are stored. At room temperature, they typically last about three to four months. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to a year. 

Freezing them can extend the seeds’ shelf life even longer. But note that you should always store them in an airtight container if you want to keep them fresh.

Does Hemp Seed Oil Go Bad? Everything to Know

Yes, hemp seed oil can go bad. Just like other oils, hemp seed oil has a shelf life, which means it can get spoiled if not stored properly. Make sure the bottle is tightly sealed to keep out air and light. If the oil smells rancid or has an off taste, it’s likely gone bad. 

Hemp seed oil is packed with healthy fats and nutrients, making it a great addition to your diet. However, these healthy fats are also the reason why hemp seed oil can spoil. When exposed to air, light, or heat, the fats in the oil can oxidize, causing it to go rancid.

How To Tell If Hemp Seeds Are Bad? 4 Signs

To tell if hemp seeds are bad, check for a sour or off smell, a change in color, or a bitter taste. Rancid seeds may also feel sticky or clump together. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard them to avoid any unpleasant or harmful effects.

Smell

The bad/rancid smell is one of the easiest ways to tell if hemp seeds are bad. Fresh hemp seeds have a pleasant, nutty aroma. So, What do rancid hemp seeds smell like? 

If they smell sour, musty, or like old paint, they have likely gone rancid. This happens when the oils in the seeds oxidize due to exposure to the atmosphere (air, heat, or light). A bad smell is a clear sign that the seeds should not be eaten.

Taste

Taste is another important indicator. Fresh hemp seeds have a mild, nutty flavor that is quite pleasant. If your hemp seeds taste bitter, sour, or off in any way, they have probably gone bad. This bitter taste comes from the rancid oils, which can make the seeds unsafe to eat. Always taste a small amount first if you’re unsure about the freshness of your seeds.

Texture

Texture changes can also indicate that hemp seeds are no longer good. Fresh hemp seeds should be firm and crunchy. If they feel soft, sticky, or clumped together, this can be a sign that they have absorbed moisture and are starting to spoil. 

Moisture can lead to mold attack, which is another reason to avoid eating them. Always check the texture to ensure your hemp seeds are safe to consume.

Appearance

Visually inspecting your hemp seeds can also help determine if they are still good. Look for any signs of mold, discoloration, or clumping. Fresh hemp seeds are usually light green or brown and have a consistent color. 

Any unusual spots or a dull, dark appearance can be signs of spoilage. If you notice any of these visual cues, it’s best to discard the seeds.

Is It Bad To Eat Expired Hemp Seeds?

Eating expired hemp seeds can be bad if they have turned rancid. Rancid seeds have a sour smell and bitter taste, and consuming them may cause digestive discomfort or other health issues. Always check the seeds’ freshness before eating to ensure they are safe to consume.

Digestive Problems

Eating expired hemp seeds can cause digestive problems. Rancid oils in the seeds can upset your stomach, leading to symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. This happens because the spoiled fats are harder for your body to process. 

To avoid this, always check the freshness of your hemp seeds before eating them.

Bad Taste and Smell

One of the first things you’ll notice with expired hemp seeds is their bad taste and smell. Fresh hemp seeds should have a mild, nutty flavor and a pleasant aroma. If they taste bitter or have a sour smell, they have gone bad. Eating seeds that taste or smell off is not only unpleasant but can also indicate they are unsafe to eat.

Nutritional Loss

Hemp seeds are packed with nutrients, but these can degrade over time. Eating expired seeds means you’re likely not getting the full nutritional benefits they offer. The healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins in the seeds can break down, making them less effective as a nutritious snack. Fresh seeds are always the best choice for maximum health benefits.

Potential Allergic Reactions

In some cases, eating expired hemp seeds could trigger allergic reactions, especially if they have developed mold. Moldy seeds can cause symptoms like itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing in people who are sensitive. 

Always store your seeds properly to prevent mold growth, and check them carefully before eating.

Shelf Life Comparison: Hemp vs Other Seeds

Hemp seeds, like other seeds, have varying shelf lives based on storage conditions. Properly stored, hemp seeds can last up to a year, while chia and flax seeds may last slightly longer. Refrigeration or freezing extends their shelf life.

Conclusion

To sum up, understanding how to store hemp seeds and recognizing signs of spoilage is crucial to enjoying their nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick recap:

• Hemp seeds can go bad if not stored properly.
• Refrigeration or freezing extends their shelf life significantly.
• Check for sour smells, bitter taste, and changes in texture to identify spoilage.
• Properly stored hemp seeds can last up to a year.

By following these tips, you can ensure your hemp seeds stay fresh and nutritious for longer.