Have a bunch of pumpkin seeds and wondering how long they last? This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
It’s officially pumpkin season, which means you likely have access to a fair amount of pumpkin seeds that are fresh from the source.
Pumpkin seeds make a crunchy, healthy snack or a great addition to things like pasta salad, chocolate bark and pumpkin spice granola.
Mold, visual changes, or an unpleasant odor are all signs that your seeds are spoiled, and you’ll need to throw them out. If, after checking, your seeds still look and smell fresh, then they are likely safe to eat. Just be sure to check the best by date on the packaging before adding them to your meals.
How Can You Use Pumpkin Seeds?
Pumpkin seeds are a great addition to fresh green salads, oatmeal, or homemade granola, granola bars and trail mixes.
Pureed pumpkin seeds are a great crunchy coating for fish or other tender meat, such as a rack of lamb.
You can also add texture to pasta or soup – pumpkin seeds are perfect for topping butternut squash soup.
You can make a pumpkin seed butter by swapping out nuts in nut butter recipes, or use them as a replacement for pine nuts in pesto.
Roasted pumpkin seeds are a very popular and incredibly easy to make with items you already have on hand in your pantry. Kids love making roasted pumpkin seeds, too!
Why Are Pumpkin Seeds a Good Snack?
Pumpkin seeds are a great snack for many reasons, the first of which is their nutritional value. These little seeds are so good!
Boasting numerous health benefits they contain healthy fats, magnesium, and other nutrients that support heart and bone health.
Looking to add more iron to your diet? Pumpkin seeds can help! One cup of pumpkin seeds contains over 9 mg of iron.
For reference, the recommended daily allowance of iron for premenopausal females is 18 mg, and for males and postmenopausal females, is 8. Wow!
They also are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants like selenium and beta carotene, and are an excellent source of zinc, phosphorus, manganese, protein, and fiber.
Why You Should STOP Eating Pumpkin Seeds NOW! | Dr. Steven Gundry
FAQ
When should you not eat pumpkin seeds?
How do I know if pumpkin seeds are bad?
How long do dry pumpkin seeds last?
Can I eat the seeds from an old pumpkin?
Do pumpkin seeds go bad after the expiration date?
Pumpkin seeds are among the most favored snacks by many. They are incredibly versatile and can be used as a snack or a topping on your favorite dish. You may have heard that pumpkin seeds only go bad after the expiration date, but it’s not true.
Are raw pumpkin seeds safe to eat?
Pumpkin seed is a source of several nutrients and can be packed in the diet in different ways: raw, cooked or fried, all of which are tasty and nutritious.
How long do roasted pumpkin seeds last?
Homemade roasted pumpkin seeds stay fresh for up to a week in the pantry. If stored in the refrigerator, they are good for 1 to 2 months. A package of store-bought pumpkin seeds comes with a “best before” or “best use by” date. Use this date as guidance for your purchase and consumption.
Can pumpkin seeds be refrigerated?
By placing the seeds in an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag, you can protect them from moisture and odors. The temperature in the refrigerator should be constant and below 40°F (4°C). Storing pumpkin seeds in the refrigerator can prolong their shelf life to approximately 6 to 12 months.