How to Select Walnuts
- When selecting shelled walnuts, look for pale, plump nutmeats. Avoid walnuts with shriveled nutmeats.
- When selecting whole walnuts, check for signs of mold on the shells. Avoid walnuts with mold.
- Fresh walnuts will smell nutty and have a sweet flavor. Avoid selecting or eating walnuts that smell like paint thinner, as this indicates they have gone rancid.
How to Store Walnuts
How To Store Shelled and Whole Walnuts: Store both shelled and whole walnuts in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. Keep them away from foods with strong odors, such as onions or fish, as walnuts will absorb the flavors and smells of other foods. If walnuts have gone rancid (they may smell like paint thinner) throw them away. While convenient, shelled walnuts go rancid fairly quickly and will not last as long as whole walnuts.
How To Freeze Walnuts: If you won’t be using the walnuts for a month or more, store them in the freezer in an air-tight bag or container. Walnuts will last for up to one year in the freezer. Both shelled and whole walnuts can be stored in the freezer.
