Do Lentils Go Bad: Have you got yourself a pack of Lentils and didn’t use it but are not sure if you can still use it? Then this article can be of great help to you as we have covered everything right from Can Lentils Go Bad, How Long Do Lentils Last, How to Store Lentils clearly in the following sections. If you still have questions about Lentils or Lentil Soup then this is for you. Without any further delay let’s get started.
- Do Lentils Go Bad?
- Cooked Lentils
- Dried Lentils
- Canned Lentils
- Lentil Soup
- Interesting Facts about Lentils
- FAQs on Does Lentils Go Bad
Do Lentils Go Bad?
Yes, Lentils can go bad in rare cases. At times Lentils can go bad if not stored properly. You might find signs of mold growth, certain insects, or even get off smell in certain conditions. If you don’t find any significant changes although they are bought years ago it’s completely your call whether or not to discard them.
Cooked Lentils
Find complete info on the Shelf Life, Expiration Dates, and Storage Practices of Cooked Lentils here. You can figure out what to do with your leftover lentils in these sections and better store them to avoid any wastage.
How Long do Cooked Lentils Last?
Cooked Lentils will last about a week in the Fridge in a Sealed Container. If you don’t find this worthwhile you can store them in the fridge and in doing so they stay up to 3 months with a slight difference in quality. You can even consume it within 3-4 days if you don’t believe in the 7-day lifespan. Keep the portion that you want to use within 3-4 days in the Refrigerator and the rest in the Freezer. By doing so, you can minimize the risk of spoilage.
How to tell if Cooked Lentils are Bad?
See the Signs of Spoilage by which you can identify if your Cooked Lentils have gone bad or not. They are as such
- If you find any discolorations or mold growth inside the container it is time to discard it. If any microbes enter the container before you store it in the Fridge mold may grow.
- Though you don’t find any visual signs of spoilage have a sniff test and see if you are getting any off smell toss them out right away.
- If your Cooked Lentils are kept in the Fridge for a long time leave them without any further thought.
- If you don’t see any of these signs taste them and in case of any flavor change throw them away.
How to Store Cooked Lentils?
Store Cooked Lentils in an airtight container or in a lidded pot. Before you store them in the Fridge let them cool down by flattening the large portions in the form of plates so that it cools down faster. You can store lentil soup too in a container. Make sure you store the cooked lentils for 2 hours or even faster before keeping it in the Fridge.
Can You Freeze Cooked Lentils?
Yes, you can freeze both cooked lentils or lentil soup in the Fridge. All you have to do is simply portion the cooked lentils and then store them in the Fridge. If you are about to freeze a lentil-based dish make sure the rest of the ingredients too freeze well.
Also, check:
Dried Lentils
Below you will find answers to all your questions related to Preservation, Shelf Life of Dried Lentils. They are along the lines
Do Dried Lentils Go Bad?
Dried Lentils do Go Bad if not stored properly. If you store them properly they will last for years but the only downside is that they will not taste the same and loses their Vitamins. However, dry lentils can not go bad.
How Long Does Dried Lentils Last?
Dried Lentils will last about 2 to 3 years if you seal them properly and prevent any moisture from entering them. Store them in a cool and dry place to ensure they are safe to eat. However, they will lose their crucial vitamin content after the date on the label. The date is to inform how long the Lentils stay in good quality. You will notice degradation after 2-3 years and most of them will damage after 5 years.
Ingredient: Red Gram Split
Nutritional Information (Approx. Values)
No. of Servings per Pack: 20
Serving Size: 50 g
| Nutrients | Per 100 g | *% Contribution to RDA per Serve |
| Energy | 346.38 kcal | 8.66 |
| Protein | 20.06 g | |
| Carbohydrate | 63.79 g | |
| Total Sugars | 2.08 g | |
| Added Sugars | 0 g | |
| Total Fat | 1.22 g | 0.91 |
| Saturated Fat | 0.26 g | 0.58 |
| Trans Fat (other than naturally occurring trans-fat) | 0 g | 0 |
| Cholesterol | 0 g | |
| Sodium | 18.01 mg | 0.45 |
*% RDA values are based on the Energy requirement of 2000 kcal/day for an average adult as per ICMR 2010, it may vary as per an individual’s calorie needs.
How to Store Dried Lentils?
You need to Store Dried Lentils in a cool and dry place away from the light sources. However, if you open the bag try keeping them in a freezer bag or air-tight container. Storing lentils in a cool place will increase their shelf life. To pack lentils keep them in a plastic bag and wrap it as tightly as you can so that you won’t have any issues. Store this bag in a cool cabinet away from moisture so that there is no chance for pantry pests to get into it.
How to Tell if Dried Lentils Go Bad?
In certain conditions discarding the dried lentils is the only way. They are along the lines
- Bugs in the Package: If you find any Pantry Bugs in the Package no matter whether they are spoiled or not you need to throw them away. They aren’t spoiled but better safe than sorry.
- Mold Growth: If water enters the bag mold will grow inside. Moldy Lentils are not safe to eat.
- Off Smell: If mold is growing under the surface you might get off smell. If your lentils taste rancid better throw them away than eating.
Canned Lentils
Clear all your queries related to Canned Lentils by going through the below modules. They are under
Do Canned Lentils Go Bad?
Canned Lentils will stay in fine for months. As long as the can stay intact the content in it stays perfectly alright. This can be true even after the date on the label. However, they can go bad if not stored properly, and below we have listed some of the signs to see and discard them.
How to Store Canned Lentils?
Canned Lentils can be packaged the same as any other canned foods. Let them sit in a cool and dry place to prevent any moisture from entering. If you open the canned lentils better keep them in a refrigerator. In case of any leftovers too keep them in a food container and store in the Fridge.
How to Tell if Canned Lentils are Bad?
Check out the below-listed signs in your Canned Lentils to see if they are spoiled. If you notice any of these symptoms discard them. They are along the lines
- Any mold or discolorations visible on the surface of lentils is a clear sign that it went wrong and it is no longer safe to use.
- If you find any smell other than the regular one throw it away.
- If your Lentils have been kept in the Fridge for a long time toss them out for safety reasons. It may seem okay to consume but we are not sure if it is good to use.
- Another quality check sign is taste. If all the above doesn’t work simply give it a quick taste and it tastes funky it is a clear sign that something went wrong.
- If the tin is dented, leaking, or rusting on the can something went wrong with it, and better get rid of it.
Before using an old package make sure everything is okay.
Lentil Soup
How Long Does Lentil Soup Last?
Unopened Lentil Soup will last about months even after the date mentioned on the label just like any other canned food. If you don’t find any rusting or bulging soup will be perfectly fine. If you open or cook the lentil soup make sure to eat it within 4-5 days and keep them covered and refrigerate.
Interesting Facts about Lentils
Learn some of the health benefits, and nutritional value that you can have eating Lentils. Below we have outlined the Fun Facts you need to know about Lentils. They are along the lines
- Lentils can be used in a variety of diets like gluten-free, allergen-friendly, and vegetarian.
- Lentil can be used both as a protein and vegetable.
- They have the same protein in one serving as much as you get from eating pork.
- Lentils are a great source of iron, minerals that lack in vegetarian diets.
- You get a plentiful source of fiber, potassium, and folic acid.
- You can get the essential vitamin folate which is necessary for reducing the risk of gestational diabetes.
FAQs on Does Lentils Go Bad
1. Can you get sick from bad lentils?
Yes, you can get sick from bad lentils. Consuming uncooked or bad lentils may cause nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal discomfort, and diarrhea.
2. Can Cooked Lentils Go Bad?
Yes, Cooked Lentils can go bad if not stored properly.
3. Is it safe to reheat Cooked Lentils?
Yes, it is safe to reheat cooked lentils provided you store them in the refrigerator or freezer earlier properly.
4. Why do you have to rinse Lentils?
Rinsing is necessary to remove debris and rocks hidden from the legumes so that you don’t end up breaking your tooth.
Final Words
Hope the knowledge shared with regards to Can Lentils Go Bad has been useful to you. Make sure to cover the lentils properly and store them in an air-tight container to prevent moisture from entering them. If you further need any assistance regarding the storage practices, shelf life, etc. do write us. Stay tuned to our site to avail latest updates on the shelf life of various grains, drinks, dips, and spreads, etc.