Do Black-Eyed Peas Go Bad?

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Black-eyed peas are creamy white beans grown and loved worldwide. These are kidney-shaped beans with a small black spot commonly called eye which, is their unique feature. Black-eyed peas make an excellent addition to your soups, snacks and, salads.

The beans have a soft texture and a creamy taste. The peas are high in protein content and good fiber making, them related to so many health advantages.

Black-eyed peas usually have a long shelf life which is a great benefit. The shelf life varies with the storage methods which, is important because improperly stored seeds may rapidly go bad which, is not at all a good sign for you.

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How to store Black-Eyed Pea?

Besides enjoying the flavorful black-eyed peas in a variety of dishes, one should be careful about their best before date. Failure to properly store them may result in their spoilage.

Usage of expired packages of peas can affect your health which is not at all desirable. Here are some methods of storage that are simple to adopt and understand.

In the pantry

Store your black-eyed peas in a cold and dry place in a glass jar inside the kitchen pantry. Take care of the temperature and humidity because high temperature and humid conditions favor the growth of molds and bacteria.

Away from sunlight

Direct exposure to extremely high temperatures in the sun can damage the black-eyed peas by destroying their texture and smell. So, always keep your peas away from sunlight to increase their shelf life.

Refrigerate it

Prefer eating peas on the very day you have brought them from the market. If not the case, store them in the refrigerator as soon as possible to avoid spoilage due to sugar content.

Store them in a plastic bag or an open container to allow the entry of some air. Refrigeration is always easy and makes the peas stay fresh for about 5-7 days.

Can you freeze Black-Eyed Pea?

If you want to store the peas for a long period of time, freezing is the best option. So yes, you can rather you must store the peas. It preserves much of the nutrients which, is a great plus point. Blanching the seeds prior to storage helps maintain their natural color. Following is a step-by-step guideline about how to freeze black-eyed peas correctly.

Rinse and clean the peas properly.
Place the peas in a boiling water pot for about 2 minutes and stir them.
After boiling, drain the water and allow the peas to cool.
Freeze the peas first on a freezer sheet and then transfer them to freezer bags.
Use when required and keep the remaining stock preserved.

Freezing peas is very easy and useful. It enhances the shelf life of the peas. Frozen seeds can last up to a period of 6 months which is great news for the consumers, Isn’t it?

How long does Black-Eyed Pea last?

Like all other food products, packaged black-eyed peas have the best by date mentioned on the label. The shelf life of black-eyed peas depends upon the storage conditions. Dried peas survive for a considerable period of time, depending on the oxygen content of the environment.

They can last for 2-3 days in the pantry and about a week in the refrigerator. Well stored, black-eyed peas usually stay fresh for 2-3 years in the freezer. That is the reason why freezing is the most favorable method for long-term storage.

Always remember to keep your package of peas properly closed and sealed, which is why canned versions of black-eyed peas can last for about 3-5 years. Incorrect storage methods, however, can decrease the shelf life leading to spoilage of peas.

How to tell if Black-Eyed Pea has gone bad?

As already mentioned above, black-eyed peas can go bad if not accurately stored. Your nose and eyes can easily detect if your peas have gone bad.

Easily noticeable indications of bad peas are mentioned as follows.

A bad smell coming from your package of peas indicates their spoilage.
Bad peas have a soggy wet appearance and an unpleasant taste.
The growth of molds and bacteria is also an important sign of bad peas.
Insects may grow into the peas destroying their texture. They may no longer be good to eat.

If you notice any of these signs, be careful and throw away the peas.

Black-eyed pea is a frequently eaten legume in many countries. It is loved throughout the world by many. It is easily available and very easy to cook. It adds flavors to various salads and stews. It is very nutritious and reduces the risk of diseases. It also helps to reduce weight.

To enjoy the long-term benefits of this delicious high-protein food product, you need to store it carefully and accurately.