The right way to store nuts and seeds

A well-stocked spice cupboard includes nuts and seeds. When you're going to use them, you want to know they'll be as fresh as possible and packed with flavour. Here's how:

• If you're storing nuts and seeds in jars be sure to write your purchase date on the jar.
• If stored properly, seeds can keep for as long as one to three years.
• Store jars in a cool, dark, dry cabinet, away from the stove and sink. Be sure to keep jars tightly sealed.

• If you use almonds on a regular basis in salads or for snacking, keep them in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh for up to nine months.
• If you buy almonds in bulk or don't plan to use your shelled almonds right away, freeze them; they'll keep for a year.
• Almonds in their shells are best kept in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry location. Inspect the shells for cracks and discard those.

• Nuts in their shells will keep in a bowl in your kitchen or dining room for up to a month.
• The nutshell should be free of cracks and mold, and the nuts should feel heavy.
• If a nut rattles inside its shell, it is likely dried out.
• To keep nuts in the shell for up to six months, refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container.

• Shelled nuts in unopened cans or jars will last up to a year in your pantry.
• Once you open the container, though, they will begin to spoil.
• If you reseal the jar or can tightly, you can expect the nuts to last about a week on the shelf or up to six months in the refrigerator. Want them to last a year or more?
• Place the container in a freezer bag and freeze. Before freezing, check for mouldy or discoloured nuts and discard them.