Thinking about pumpkin seeds’ shelf life, the first thing that comes to mind is, “Do pumpkin seeds go bad, and If they do go bad how to find it out!” Wondering the same?
Just like any other edible seed, such as chia seeds and sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds too have a shelf life. And they can go bad due to various reasons.
In the United States, Pumpkin seeds are used as a snack. Yes, snack! It is consumed as an autumn seasonal snack.
There are innumerable benefits of pumpkin seeds, such as it has a high source of Vitamin K, Magnesium, and Zinc.
Can save you from major diseases like lowering blood sugar level, reducing the risk of certain cancers. As they are high in fiber and magnesium.
So with such innumerable health benefits, let us know how long do pumpkin seeds last ?. Do pumpkin seeds go bad? And How to store pumpkin seeds?
How long do pumpkin seeds last?
Pumpkin seeds are the powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin K is found in them.
If one stores them at room temperature, it can last for 2-3 months, but if one stores them in the refrigerator, it stays for a year. But if you put it up in a freezer, it can last for a year and remains safe beyond time.
It depends upon the storage containers they are stored in.
A rich source of nutrients such as zinc, magnesium, vitamin K, and manganese makes pumpkin seed a part of a healthy diet recommended by doctors worldwide.
One can also consume it as a packed snack. Autumn Seed Inc. is the largest processor of edible pumpkin seeds in the United States for straight 30 years.
Do pumpkin seeds go bad?
Yes, they do go bad, and there are many nuances for the same. If it is stored in a pantry and has crossed 2 to 3 months, there are chances of the seed rotting.
It also depends on the atmosphere. If the atmosphere is humid, it can go bad easily. This is because they are to be kept in a cool and dry place.
Did you guys know about this fact? If not, you guys can use this information to save your seeds!!
Pumpkin seeds can go bad if kept in direct sunlight; they start giving a rancid taste. This is one of the most common indications of the seeds gone bad.
But this does not mean that you cannot consume them; it is just that it loses its nutritional value.
Experts highly recommend throwing the seeds if there is any discoloration and change in appearance.
Just like sunflower seeds, they, too, catch fungus. Any bad taste or foul smell are indicators of seed gone bad.
Pumpkin seeds can go bad even if they are not stored in a zip-lock bag or an airtight container.
So since now, you all know what makes pumpkin seeds go bad, here’s what you should know about storing pumpkin seeds.
How to store pumpkin seeds?
Storing pumpkin seeds is essential because if one keeps them right, they won’t go bad very soon. How do you guys store your seeds?
If you store them under proper climatic conditions, they can long last.
When stored in an air-tight container, they can last as long as a year or more than that.
To increase its shelf life, one should keep it in an air-tight container. You can even store seeds in heavy freezer zip-lock bags. This can improve the shelf life of pumpkin seeds.
If the atmosphere is cloudy, then it is not advisable to keep seeds in a pantry. This can affect the quality of seeds and their shelf life.
Some information about your favorite seeds won’t hurt, so here’s what you can know about pumpkin seeds you love having in your diet.
Things to know about Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkins have come a long way which is 7,500 years. Earlier pumpkins were small in size and very bitter light orange colored.
The use of pumpkin seeds has come to increase in the past few years, and it is said to grow in the coming four years.
Manufactures say production may increase by 13% by 2024 due to its increasing demand.
Pumpkin seeds are nutritious and help combat diseases such as lower blood sugar, various types of cancers.
They are high in fiber, antioxidants, and magnesium contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
The omega -3 content decreases thrombosis, LDL, triglyceride levels. Improve endothelial functions, a measure of circulatory health.
A rodent study suggests that the nutrients in a mixture of pumpkin and flax seeds could protect the liver and against atherosclerosis.
The fiber in seeds helps lower the cholesterol in the blood and cuts off the risk of coronary heart disease. It also helps in weight loss due to its high fiber content and enriches digestive health.
Its high magnesium property helps in bone formation, and high magnesium intake is linked with a superior bone density. It also decreases the possibility of osteoporosis in women after menopause.
Pumpkin seeds contain sterols; it was found that there were 256mg of sterols in every 100gm of Pumpkin seed.
Pumpkin seeds also help to cure insomnia as it contains tryptophan, an amino acid that converts it into serotonin the good feel relaxing hormone- the sleep hormone.
It also helps prevent complications in pregnancy. Many researchers say that pumpkin seeds are the source of zinc. Nutritionists also suggest additional zinc during pregnancy.
Women who do not take enough zinc in their daily intake are advised additional zinc consumption during pregnancy, making pumpkin seeds essential for their diet.
In 100g raw seeds, there is 7.99mg zinc, and it is also suggested that males above 19 years of age should daily consume 11mg of zinc and women 8mg.
FAQ’s about Pumpkin Seeds
From where do we get edible roasted and marinated pumpkin seeds?
The biggest manufacturer of edible pumpkin seeds in the United States is Autumn Seed Inc.
They marinate and roast them, then put them into containers and then supply them to the Supermarkets.
They say they are the pioneers in developing pumpkin and squash seeds into an enjoyable snack enjoyed by millions each year.
What is the nutritional value of pumpkin seeds?
Roasted and dried pumpkin seeds are 2% water, 49% fat, 30% protein, and 15% carbohydrates.
As measuring it per every 100g, one gets 2401 kJ energy, 14.71g Carbohydrates, 49.05 fats, 29.84g Protein.
Why do pumpkin seeds go green after roasting?
Pumpkin seeds are white when are removed, but once their husk is removed, they are green inside.
It also depends on how you marinate them and which ingredient may vary in color and taste.
Can toddlers consume Pumpkin seeds?
Yes, they can, but the child should be of 18 months or more and should have strong teeth to chew seeds without hurting themselves.
Parents, you can even mix them up with cereals or any other food. You can even churn and make powder of them and add them up to any suitable recipe of yours.
But if your toddler can chew it, give him seeds one by one. It won’t compromise the nutritious value of the source.
Which ingredients are used to marinate pumpkin seeds?
After roasting Pumpkin seeds, one can marinate them in olive oil, which is one teaspoon per ½ cup of seeds. Make sure you coat each seed well. And then your edible seeds are all set for consumption.
A lip-smacking margination which everyone would love, namely Pizza Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, all you need is some raw pumpkin seeds, grated parmesan cheese, dried basil, oregano, salt, olive oil, and garlic powder.
It tastes yummy! Have you ever tasted or tried this one? If not, then try this out!! You won’t regret it for sure!
Is it necessary to roast the seeds before marinating them?
Yes, it is necessary to roast them. It makes them tasty and also increases their shelf life. It makes it chewy and crunchy to eat.
Why are pumpkin seeds chewy?
Roasted pumpkins are usually chewy; rest them till they cool down completely and later try them on and if they are still the same, repeat the process in an oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes to turn it crispy.
Final Notes
So that’s a wrap. You came a long way, showing your love towards pumpkin seeds and their consumption in your diet.
So since you love them a lot, you probably by now know the best way to store it. Refrigerator being the best human creation has led to increased shelf-life of most edibles, and pumpkin seeds are no exception.
You just need to make sure you have pumpkin seeds stored in an air-tight container away from sunlight.
If you notice any discoloration or foul smell coming out of it, it’s time you need to get new pumpkin seeds and get rid of these all.
Happy Snacking !!!
