The best method for preserving peanuts with shells

The key to storing peanuts with shells is to prevent moisture, mold, and light from sealing. The main methods include storing in a cool and dry place, refrigerating, vacuum packaging, regular inspection, and avoiding high temperatures.

1. Store in a cool and dry place

Put peanuts with shells into breathable woven bags or burlap bags, and place them in a well ventilated environment with humidity below 60%. Kitchen cabinets or storage rooms should be kept away from damp heat sources such as sinks and stoves. Food desiccants can be placed during the rainy season. This method is suitable for short-term storage and is recommended to be consumed within 2 months.

2. refrigerated storage

Unshelled peanuts are placed in food sealed bags and air is expelled before refrigeration. The temperature is controlled at around 4 ℃ to suppress the growth of Aspergillus flavus. Be careful to avoid mixing with strongly scented food, and ensure that peanuts are completely dry before refrigeration. This method can extend the shelf life to 6 months, but the taste will slightly harden after refrigeration.

3. Vacuum packaging

Use a household vacuum machine to package peanuts into small portions and vacuum seal them. Each package should be consumed for one week. The vacuum state can block the contact between oxygen and moisture, and can be maintained for one year without mold at room temperature. Uneaten items after opening need to be vacuumed again or transferred to a sealed container.

4. Regular inspection

Check the stored peanuts every month for mold, insect infestation, or crackling odor. Peanut shells that are damp will become soft and dull. If mold is found, the entire batch should be discarded because aflatoxin is resistant to high temperatures and has strong carcinogenicity. Slight moisture can be spread out and dried, but the taste will significantly decrease.

5. Avoid high temperatures

Peanuts have high oil content, and long-term exposure to environments above 30 ℃ can accelerate oil oxidation. In summer, one should avoid high temperature places such as balconies and car trunks, as direct sunlight can cause the outer shell to crack. Stir fried peanuts with shells need to be stored away from light, and it is recommended to use iron sealed cans for storage.

Shelled peanuts can be taken out regularly for drying and moisture removal during storage, but it is necessary to avoid exposure to strong sunlight at noon. If planning for long-term storage, priority should be given to fresh peanuts of the current season, with intact shells and no cracks, which are more durable for storage. Before consumption, it is necessary to observe whether the kernels have changed color. Moldy peanuts can produce highly toxic aflatoxins. It is recommended to manually screen and remove abnormal particles before cooking. Timely sealing after daily use, combined with silicone desiccant, can further enhance the moisture-proof effect.