should oatmeal be refrigerated

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If the oats are stored in paper, after opening the package, transfer the grains to an airtight glass or metal container and stash them in the fridge or freezer. This is also a great way to prevent other nuisances that can arise in a pantry situation, like mealy bugs (sorry for the nightmares).
should oatmeal be refrigerated

Dry oatmeal needs careful handling

Jeannie Nichols, – January 26, 2017

Oatmeal is made from a whole grain that needs a bit of careful handling. Learn about the different kinds of oatmeal and how to properly handle them.

Photo credit: Jeannie Nichols

Comfort foods are those that bring us peace and good feelings when we eat them. They can bring good memories, calmness, and make us feel better psychologically and physically. Oatmeal is one comfort food that can offer nostalgic and sentimental feelings for some people.

Oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast and those of us who enjoy oatmeal well understand this. It can be a nutritious ingredient in cookies, muffins, breads, meatloaf and many other recipes. However, it is important to handle your dry oatmeal with care.

Michigan State University Extension offers these food safety tips when it comes to dry oatmeal:

  • Unopened dry oatmeal should be stored in a cool, clean and dry place.
  • Opened oatmeal ought to be stored tightly covered in a resealable plastic bag or in a plastic or glass container. It is best practice to use opened oatmeal within one year.
  • Dry oatmeal can also be stored in a freezer bag in the freezer for one year. Your freezer should be at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • The “best by” or “best if used by” dates are really quality suggestions. The oatmeal after this date would still be safe if it was stored properly. Oatmeal can develop an off smell or flavor depending on where and how it was stored. So always look at, and smell, the dry oatmeal that you will be using.

Refrigerator Oatmeal – Breakfast

FAQ

What is the best way to store oatmeal?

Unopened dry oatmeal should be stored in a cool, clean and dry place. Opened oatmeal ought to be stored tightly covered in a resealable plastic bag or in a plastic or glass container. It is best practice to use opened oatmeal within one year. Dry oatmeal can also be stored in a freezer bag in the freezer for one year.

Does oatmeal spoil if not refrigerated?

If not refrigerated and left at room temperature, bacteria can start to grow in cooked oatmeal, which is a concern for food safety. As such, any cooked oatmeal left outside of the fridge for 2 or more hours should be considered as expired, and consequently, put in the trash.

Should you refrigerate cooked oatmeal?

Once prepared, oatmeal can be a breeding ground for bacteria that will cause foodborne illnesses. Cooked oatmeal should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. In the fridge, oatmeal can be kept for up to five days, while frozen oatmeal can be kept for up to three months.

Does oatmeal have to be refrigerated after opening?

While uncooked oatmeal doesn’t require refrigeration, storing it in the refrigerator can help prolong its freshness. Ensure it is in a well-sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and odors from other foods.

Can You refrigerate cooked oatmeal?

The funky flavors can be passed along to the leftover oatmeal, so that is something to watch out for. Once oatmeal has been cooked, it must be refrigerate within 2 hours. According to the USDA safe handling procedures, you should not leave cooked oatmeal sitting out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours.

Can one eat raw oatmeal?

You can eat raw oats without a problem. Raw oats are high in soluble fiber and they are perfect to eat in smoothies, with yogurt and fruit.

How long can you keep cooked oatmeal?

Cooked oatmeal can be separated into individual portions and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Dehydrator: Dehydrated oatmeal is shelf-stable and can be efficiently stored in a cool, dry and dark area for up to 3 months. Use an airtight container and oxygen absorbers to maintain best quality. How do you store leftover cooked oatmeal?

Can you freeze cooked oatmeal?

Freezer: Freezing cooked oatmeal is another useful method. Cooked oatmeal can be separated into individual portions and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Dehydrator: Dehydrated oatmeal is shelf-stable and can be efficiently stored in a cool, dry and dark area for up to 3 months.

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