Often enjoyed as a snack, or sprinkled on top of salads and sweet treats, walnuts have numerous health benefits when added to our diets, and can be eaten raw or roasted. A natural antioxidant that also contains anti-inflammatory properties, it can help with managing a number of chronic health conditions, from type 2 diabetes to heart disease.
They’re also one of the most important sources of polyphenols, a micronutrient found in plants that can help with controlling blood sugar, aid digestion and even benefit brain function. While the nuts are a great addition to any balanced and healthy diet, these benefits could, however, be seriously reduced if you don’t store them properly, and new research has revealed that over three-quarters of Brits keep walnuts in the wrong place.
A new survey from California Walnuts has found that less than one in 10 adults know the best place to keep walnuts to ensure they’re kept fresh. Many nuts including almonds, peanuts, cashews and pistachios can be kept in a cupboard or pantry, but walnuts are slightly different.
Despite technically being classed as a nut, walnuts are, in fact, fresh produce and, like most fresh produce, prefer being kept in a cold place. Keeping them in the fridge at cooler temperatures is the best spot to ensure they stay “fresh and tasty”, but only 8% of Brits admitted to knowing this.
“It is really interesting to see how many people don’t realise that walnuts are, in fact, fresh produce, which means they need to be kept in the same place as most fruit and vegetables – in the cold,” said California Walnuts.
“The best place to keep them fresh and maintain their great taste and health properties is to put them in the fridge or freezer – they can actually be kept in either for up to six months!”
It’s not just about the taste either, keeping walnuts in the fridge also protects the healthy oils they contain, and the benefits of these oils, particularly omega-3. Packed with protein and fibre, walnuts are “nutrient powerhouses” and their high omega-3 content is especially good for brain health and function.
Top tips for storing walnuts correctly:
- Walnuts can be kept in sealed packaging in the fridge or freezer for up to six months
Once removed from packaging, keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and place them back in the fridge or freezer for up to three months
When storing walnuts in your fridge, keep them away from foods with strong odours (e.g. fish, cabbage, onions) as they can absorb the flavours of other foods
Whether you have shelled or in-shell walnuts, wait to chop or shell them until you’re ready to use them
The same applies to ground walnuts; don’t grind them until you’re ready to add them to your recipe
