How Long Does Unmilled Grain Last?

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Unmilled grain is simply grain that hasn’t been processed using a mill. It can last quite a long time and can have various uses. Whether you want to use it for fermentation, or cooking, unmilled grain is pretty much universal. 

Unmilled grain has been used for a long time. There are all sorts of choices when it comes to it, so in the rest of the article, we’ll cover all the potential questions you have. 

How Long will Unmilled Grain Stay Fresh?

In terms of keeping fresh, unmilled grain is a little complicated. Diastatic malts with a light color, like 2-row or Pilsner malt, have a shelf life of 6-12 months, while specialized grains have a shelf life of 12-18 months. 

Malts that have been roasted or kilned at a higher temperature, like chocolate malt or roasted barley, can keep for even longer.

 

Can You Make it Last Longer?

The best containers for long-term storage are airtight plastic bags or rigid plastic containers with a locking cover. By preventing the oxygen from entering – you’ll be able to keep it fresh for a longer time, rather than keeping it without. 

Unmilled grain can be stored for a year in these conditions, but it is important to check its state once you decide to open it. For example, sometimes airtight containers can be faulty, and the mills will be ruined easily if the air comes in.

 

What Can You Do with Unmilled Grain?

Unmilled grain is most commonly bought and milled at home since it will last longer than already milled grain and cuts the cost of homebrewing. Unmilled grain can also be used for food, feed, fodder, and fuel.

You can use it in all sorts of recipes since its taste is very neutral, but in case you choose to mill it, it can serve as flour. Unmilled grains can serve you to connect veggie mash, casseroles, and meat recipes as well.  

 

What Should You Know About it?

Buying unmilled grains to mill at home is cost-effective and has nutritional value. The nutritious value and taste of freshly milled flour are both enhanced. However, it does take some getting used to.

The taste and texture of unmilled grains are very specific and not everyone’s cup of tea. But once you get used to it, you can do all sorts of things with it.

 

How to Store it Properly?

The shelf life of unprocessed, whole-kernel grains is at least a year, with adequate storage. You should store grains in an airtight container in a cold, dry place. 

Grains are very sensitive, so storing them in the wrong place for a short time can ruin them completely. Therefore, you should keep an eye on storing it properly. This helps keep grains fresher for longer and protects them from critters, moisture, and more.

 

Final Thoughts on How Long Does Unmilled Grain Last

Unmilled grains are mainly used for homebrewing and can last quite some time. It is also cheaper to buy, especially in bulk. So, if you mill it yourself at home, you’re saving yourself some money. If you store it correctly, it can last even longer.

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