When you go to buy flour from the grocery store, you’re most likely grabbing the all-purpose kind. However, different types of flour need have different storage needs and shelf lives. We must pay attention to storage rules to make sure our flour is ready for use when we need it most.

First, here are some general storage tips for flour, no matter what kind it is:

• Store all flour in a cool, dry place to keep it from absorbing moisture.
• Extend shelf life by storing the package in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
• Store flour in an airtight container, such as a sealed plastic freezer bag, a lidded Mason jar or a Tupperware container.
• Add a bay leaf to the package as a natural insect repellent.
• Dispose of any flour that has a strong, stale or rancid odor.
• Placing flour in the freezer for 48 hours will kill any insects or their eggs.
• For extended storage, keep the flour in the freezer.

Now let’s consider the type of flour.

• All-purpose flour can be stored in its original unopened container placed inside a sealed plastic bag on the pantry shelf for 10 to 15 months. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, place the container in the freezer.
• Bread flour, made from high protein wheat, should be stored in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. If stored properly, it will last for up to six months in your pantry and indefinitely in the freezer.
• Self-rising flour (phosphate flour) can last on the pantry shelf for up to 15 months. If you store it in the freezer, it will last indefinitely.
• Instant flour will last up to eight months when it is sealed and on the pantry shelf and indefinitely in the freezer.
• Cake flour, which can clump when left unopened and untouched and therefore need sifting, can last for two years stored in a dry, cool pantry.
• Wheat flour will stay fresh six to eight months in the refrigerator and indefinitely in the freezer.
• Nut flours and other alternative flours can last for up to six months in the refrigerator and indefinitely in the freezer.

How to Tell if Flour Is Fresh

• Flour that has “gone bad” will be darker in color that it normally is.
• Look closely for the presence of bugs in the flour.
• Spoiled flour will smell bad or even rancid.

Do you have any other tips for storing flour?

Article Source: Off The Grid News