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    Home » Whole Grain Resources

    Can Whole Wheat Flour Go Bad?

    Published: Aug 14, 2023 by Amy Sandidge · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    If you are wondering "Can whole wheat flour go bad?", let me provide you with comprehensive information to address all the questions you might have about the topic.

    If you have been a follower of my blog or social media, you are likely aware of my passion for incorporating various types of wheat flour into my baked goods. However, when it comes to purchasing and storing wheat flour, there are a few essential considerations to keep in mind. Rest assured, I am here to guide you through this process.

    Whole wheat flour in a wooden bowl.

    Let me share some of my favorite most recent recipes using whole-grain flour. Keep them in mind next time you are making your baking list!

    • Sliced sprouted grain bread on a white tray with a woman holding it.
      Sprouted Whole Grain Bread Recipe
    • Raspberry Muffins Recipe
    • Rhubarb galette on a sheet pan with blackberries and rhubarb on the side.
      Simple Rhubarb Galette Recipe
    • Pieces of focaccia stacked together.
      Whole Wheat Focaccia Bread

    Can whole wheat flour go bad?

    The short answer is, Yes. Wheat flour can certainly go bad if not stored properly, or stored for too long.

    Whole wheat flour contains the germ, which has oils in it. When these oils are exposed to oxygen, slowly, over time, the flour can go rancid. This is why the shelf life of refined, white flour is so much higher. They can generally be held for 12 months, whereas whole wheat flour is generally good for 3-9 months.

    Bugs and humidity are also an issue.

    Keep reading and I will break it all down for you on how to figure out if your wheat flour has gone bad and share some cool tips on how to store it like a pro. Get ready to keep that flour fresh and ready for all your baking adventures!

    Whole wheat flours on a surface.

    How to properly store wheat flour

    Airtight storage- To properly store wheat flour, it is essential to follow a few key steps. First, transfer it to an airtight container to shield it from moisture and pests. Keep the container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, as exposure to heat can affect its quality.

    Check the expiration date or the "best by" date- on the bag of flour to ensure its freshness. Different types of flour, such as all-purpose or whole wheat, may have varying shelf lives. As a pantry staple, it's a good idea to rotate your stock, using older flour before newer ones to maintain its freshness.

    Cold and frozen storage- If you live in a hot and humid environment, or if you buy flour in bulk, consider storing a portion of it in cold storage. You can keep it in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life. However, make sure to place it in a well-sealed, airtight container or resealable bag to prevent moisture absorption and potential odors from other food items.

    Check before purchasing-Lastly, when purchasing flour from the grocery store, check for any signs of damage, such as tears or rips in the packaging, and choose the freshest option available.

    Woman holding a bag of spelt flour.

    Preserving specialty flours

    When it comes to properly storing specialty flours like almond flour, coconut flour, tapioca flours, nut flours, oat flour, buckwheat flour, and brown rice flour, a few considerations can help maintain their quality.

    First, store these gluten-free flours in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. This will prevent exposure to light and moisture, which can lead to spoilage.

    To keep track of freshness, note the printed date on the packaging and prioritize using older batches first to minimize food waste. Some specialty flours, like almond and coconut flour, have higher fat content and may benefit from refrigeration or freezing to extend shelf life. In this case, use airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent moisture absorption and odors.

    It's important to remember that different specialty flours may have unique storage requirements due to their specific characteristics. Always refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the best storage recommendations.

    If you are wondering about the difference between almond flour and whole wheat flour, I have a post all about this.

    Almond flour in a white bowl.

    Long-term storage of whole wheat flour

    For long-term storage of wheat flour, the best way to ensure its quality is to follow these steps. First, opt for whole-wheat flour, which has a longer shelf life due to its higher fiber content. Transfer the flour to an airtight container, preferably made of food-grade plastic or metal, to protect it from moisture and pests.

    Storing the flour in a freezer is one of my favorite options. Be sure it is in a freezer-safe container or bag, and sealed properly.

    Store the container in a cool, dark place, as light and heat can accelerate the degradation of the flour. The good news is, mylar bags can also be used for added protection against moisture and oxygen.

    To minimize the amount of air inside the container, you can consider using oxygen absorbers, which help reduce oxygen levels and extend the shelf life of the flour. These absorbers can be placed inside the container before sealing it tightly.

    How to tell if your wheat flour has gone bad

    To determine if your wheat flour has gone bad, look out for the following signs:

    • Examine the type of flour: Different types of flour may have varying shelf lives and characteristics, so it's important to consider this factor.
    • Give it a closer look and smell: Fresh flour should have a neutral odor. If you detect any unpleasant or rancid odor, it may indicate spoilage.
    • Check for signs of mold: Look for any discoloration, spots, or growth on the flour, as these can be signs of mold contamination.
    • Watch out for flour beetles or tiny bugs: The presence of small insects in the flour, such as flour beetles or weevils, suggests infestation.
    • Notice a musty or off smell: If the flour emits a musty or off smell, it may indicate deterioration and is a sign to discard it.

    If you come across any of these indications, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard the flour to avoid any potential health risks or compromised taste in your baked goods.

    Why use wheat flour in baked goods?

    Using whole wheat flour in baked goods offers several compelling reasons:

    1. Health Benefits: Whole wheat flour retains the nutrient-rich bran and germ, providing a higher content of fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins), minerals (such as iron and magnesium), and antioxidants compared to refined flour. It promotes better digestion, helps maintain a healthy weight, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
    2. Enhanced Flavor: Whole wheat flour adds a distinct nutty and slightly sweet flavor to baked goods, elevating their taste profile. It imparts a hearty and wholesome essence that complements various recipes, such as bread, muffins, and cookies.
    3. Texture and Moisture: The fiber content in whole wheat flour adds structure and density to baked goods, resulting in a satisfying, chewy texture. It also helps retain moisture, preventing baked goods from drying out too quickly.
    4. Improved Satiety: Due to its higher fiber content, using whole wheat flour in baked goods can promote a feeling of fullness and satisfaction, aiding in portion control and reducing overeating.
    5. Dietary Diversity: Incorporating whole wheat flour diversifies your diet and allows for a wider range of nutrients. It introduces different grains into your baking repertoire, expanding your culinary horizons and offering a wholesome alternative to refined flour-based recipes.
    Woman holding a bag of whole wheat pastry flour.

    Summary

    To maintain the integrity of your whole wheat flour during storage, keep the following points in mind:

    • Check the best-by date: Be aware of the recommended shelf life for your specific whole wheat flour. Using it within this timeframe is ideal to ensure freshness.
    • Watch out for rancid flour: Rancidity is a common issue with whole wheat flour due to its higher fat content. Check for any off or unpleasant odors, as this can indicate spoilage.
    • Store in sealed bags: Keep your whole wheat flour in its original packaging or transfer it to airtight bags to prevent exposure to moisture and air, which can accelerate degradation.
    • Store in small amounts: Consider storing smaller quantities of flour for more frequent use. This helps maintain the freshness of the remaining portion.
    • Look for signs of spoilage: Regularly inspect your flour for any signs of mold, pests, or discoloration, as these are indicators that the flour has gone bad.
    • Discard expired flour: If your whole wheat flour has exceeded its best-by date or shows clear signs of spoilage, it's best to dispose of it rather than risk the quality and taste of your baked goods.
    Woman holding a pie pan with pie dough in it.

    How to Make Whole Wheat Flour Pie Crust

    Amy Sandidge
    Have you been looking for a no-fail whole wheat pie crust recipe? If you find making homemade wheat pie crust intimidating, don't worry because I promise I will do everything I can to break it down and make it easy for any level cook.
    5 from 9 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 15 minutes mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Servings 8 servings

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour plus more for rolling
    • 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour You can also easily use 100% whole wheat and no all-purpose if you prefer.
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 14 tablespoons butter, cut in 1 inch pieces Butter should be chilled. After you cut it into chunks and are waiting to add it in, I like to pue it in the freezer to keep it really cold.
    • ½ cup ice water plus 1-3 tablespoons as needed.

    Instructions
     

    Making the Pie Dough

    • Add salt and flours to medium-sized bowl. Mix to combine. Next add in chilled butter. Blend in with your hands or pastry cutter. If you are using a food processor, I like to pulse it about 10 times. You will want the butter to look like cracker crumbs.
    • Now, it is time for the water. Add in ½ cup, and mix. If you are using a food processor, pulse about 10 times again. Pinch the dough between your thumb and index finger. If it stays together and holds well, it is good to go. If it is still crumbly, add in another tablespoon or 2. Repeat the process and check again.
    • Once it is ready to go, turn out onto a surface and knead quickly until it holds together. Divide dough in half and form into 2 disks. Wrap each one separately with saran wrap and place in the fridge.
    • It is best chilled at least 2 hours. The dough can be held in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or, if you prefer, you can make it ahead and store it in the freezer, wrapped well, for up to once month. Just place in the fridge overnight before using.
    • Now, it is ready to go! choose your favorite recipe and get to it!

    Rolling Out a Pie Crust

    • Lightly flour your surface and remove the dough from the fridge. Roll out the disk several times back and forth in one direction. Rotate it 45 degrees, and roll again.
    • Continue this process until the dough is the right size. This helps maintain the circular shape. Roll the pie dough to 2-3 inches bigger than your pan.
    • Gently press the pie dough into your pan. Tuck the excess pie dough under. Then crimp the edges. 
    • For blind baking, place a piece of parchment into the formed pie dough. Fill with beans or baking weights. Bake the pie dough at 385 degrees for 10 minutes. Remove the parchment and weights. Bake an additional 8 minutes. 

    Video

    Notes

    This is a recipe adapted from Kate Mc Dermott's recipe from her book Art Of Pie
    • I like the butter as cold as possible to start. Cut it into chunks and freeze it while getting the rest of the ingredients ready.
    • Work quickly so the butter doesn't have a chance to warm up and soften too much.
    • Environmental factors affect the texture of the dough. Be sure to adjust the amount of water as needed.
    • Storing pie dough in the freezer. You can make it ahead and store for up to one month in the freezer. Wrap it well and store it in an airtight bag to keep it from absorbing any flavors in the freezer.
    Keyword best pie dough recipe, flaky pie dough, wheat pie dough
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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    Hi, I'm Amy! I am a culinary school graduate working to create a balanced approach to healthy recipes. My recipes are ones that the whole family can love.

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