Can I eat peanuts with shells that have been stored for a year

Shelled peanuts that have been stored for a year and are not moldy are usually edible, but their quality should be carefully checked. Peanut spoilage may produce aflatoxins, which can be harmful to health when consumed. Peanuts stored in shells have slower water loss due to shell protection. If stored in a dry, cool, and well sealed environment, they can still maintain good quality after one year. Before consumption, it is necessary to observe whether the outer shell is intact and undamaged. After peeling, check whether the color of the nuts is normal and whether there is a crackling or moldy smell when smelled. Peanuts that have not undergone discoloration, mold growth, or odor can be safely consumed after sufficient drying or low-temperature baking. If the storage environment is humid or the temperature is too high, peanuts are prone to mold contamination, and the shell may have black spots or white mycelium. After peeling, the kernels turn yellow, green, black, or have a pungent moldy smell, indicating the growth of harmful microorganisms such as Aspergillus flavus. These types of peanuts are difficult to completely destroy toxins even when heated at high temperatures. Ingestion may cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and long-term ingestion may even increase the risk of liver cancer. They must be discarded and disposed of.

It is recommended to store peanuts in a sealed container in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Thoroughly inspect the quality before consumption. Moldy peanuts are not edible. Vacuum packaging or frozen storage can be chosen for daily use to extend shelf life. Nut foods are recommended to be consumed as soon as possible to ensure nutrition and taste. If the storage time is too long or it is impossible to determine whether it has spoiled, it is recommended not to consume it again for safety reasons.