How do I store apricot kernels properly?

December 8, 2025 •

4 min read

According to The Spruce Eats, apricot kernels can last for up to two years when stored correctly in an airtight container. To ensure you know exactly how do I store apricot kernels properly for both safety and longevity, this guide provides the essential steps and best practices. Proper storage is crucial to prevent spoilage and potential health risks associated with moisture and improper handling.

Quick Summary

This guide details the best methods for storing apricot kernels to maintain their freshness and prolong their shelf life. It covers short-term storage in a pantry, longer-term solutions in the refrigerator or freezer, and how to prepare kernels for storage. Key steps include proper drying, selecting the right container, and maintaining the correct temperature to prevent mold and rancidity.

Key Points

Dry Completely: Ensure kernels are fully air-dried or oven-dried to eliminate all moisture before storage to prevent mold.
Use Airtight Containers: An airtight container is essential for all storage durations to protect kernels from oxygen, moisture, and odors.
Choose Location Based on Time: Store in a cool, dark pantry for short-term use, the refrigerator for medium-term, and the freezer for long-term preservation.
Freeze for Maximum Shelf Life: For storage exceeding one to two years, freezing in a vacuum-sealed bag is the most effective method, potentially lasting over a decade.
Cook Kernels Before Consumption: Always cook apricot kernels before eating to reduce the risk of cyanide poisoning, as they contain amygdalin.
Avoid Heat and Light: Keep kernels away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can cause the oils to go rancid quickly.
Label and Date: Clearly label storage containers with the date to help you keep track of freshness.

Essential Steps Before You Store Apricot Kernels

Before placing your apricot kernels into storage, proper preparation is key to ensuring their safety and longevity. This is especially important for kernels harvested directly from fresh apricots, as they will contain higher levels of moisture.

Harvesting and Cleaning

Extracting Kernels: To retrieve the kernels, first remove the apricot flesh. Wrap the hard pit in a cloth and use a hammer to gently crack it open, revealing the kernel inside. Handle with care to avoid damage.
Washing: Rinse the kernels thoroughly under cool water to remove any residual fruit pulp. This is a critical step to prevent mold growth during storage.

Drying the Kernels

Moisture is the primary enemy of stored nuts and seeds, leading to mold and a shortened shelf life. You can dry kernels using two main methods:

Air-Drying: Spread the kernels in a single layer on a baking sheet or dehydrator tray in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Allow them to dry completely for several days until they are hard and brittle.
Oven-Drying: If you need to speed up the process, you can use a low-temperature oven. Place kernels on a baking sheet and set the oven to its lowest temperature (140-150°F / 60-65°C). Leave the door ajar to allow moisture to escape and dry for several hours, checking frequently to prevent scorching.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage Solutions

Depending on how quickly you plan to use your kernels, you have several options for storage. Each method offers a different balance of convenience and preservation time.

Pantry Storage (Short-Term)

For kernels you plan to use within a few weeks, pantry storage is sufficient, provided you meet certain conditions. The area must be cool, dark, and dry.

Container: Use an airtight glass jar or a sealed plastic food storage container to protect the kernels from oxygen, moisture, and pests.
Location: A kitchen pantry or cupboard, away from heat sources like ovens or stovetops, is ideal.
Shelf Life: When stored correctly, kernels can last for several weeks to a few months at ambient temperature before the risk of rancidity increases.

Refrigerator Storage (Medium-Term)

Refrigeration is the best option for preserving freshness for a medium duration, slowing down the oxidation process that causes rancidity. The cool, stable temperature extends their life significantly.

Container: An airtight container is still the best choice to protect kernels from moisture and food odors within the fridge.
Shelf Life: Kernels stored in the refrigerator can last for up to a year or more.

Freezer Storage (Long-Term)

For maximum longevity, particularly if you have a large batch, freezing is the optimal method. This halts the oxidation process and maintains the kernels' quality for years.

Container: For freezing, use heavy-duty freezer bags (removing as much air as possible) or airtight, freezer-safe containers. Vacuum-sealing is a great option for multi-year storage.
Shelf Life: When stored properly in a freezer, kernels can remain fresh for over ten years, maintaining their potency and flavor.

Comparison of Apricot Kernel Storage Methods


Feature	Pantry Storage	Refrigerator Storage	Freezer Storage
Best For	Short-term use (weeks)	Medium-term use (months)	Long-term use (years)
Container Type	Airtight container (glass or plastic)	Airtight container (glass or plastic)	Heavy-duty freezer bag, vacuum-sealed bag, freezer-safe container
Temperature	Cool, dark, and dry area	35-40°F (1-4°C)	0°F (-18°C) or below
Humidity	Low humidity is critical	Stable, low humidity	Stable, low humidity
Shelf Life	Several weeks to a few months	1-2 years	Up to 10+ years
Risk of Spoilage	High (if conditions are not ideal)	Moderate (slower spoilage)	Very Low

Safety Precautions and Final Recommendations

It is important to acknowledge that apricot kernels contain amygdalin, which the body can convert to cyanide. This is particularly true for bitter varieties. For this reason, regulatory bodies in several countries advise against consuming raw apricot kernels. Always cook apricot kernels before consumption, as this process significantly reduces the amount of amygdalin. The storage advice here focuses on maintaining the kernels' quality before they are properly processed for culinary use.

Keep it Cool and Dry: The single most important factor for any storage method is to protect the kernels from moisture, heat, and light. These elements accelerate rancidity and promote mold growth.
Use Airtight Containers: Oxygen exposure speeds up the deterioration of fats in the kernels, causing them to go rancid. Using an airtight container is non-negotiable for any storage duration.
Label Everything: Clearly label your containers with the date of storage. This helps track freshness, especially for long-term frozen batches.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently store your apricot kernels, whether you have a small batch for a recipe or a large harvest to last for years. Remember to prioritize safety by always cooking them before consumption.

Conclusion

To properly store apricot kernels, the key is to eliminate moisture, protect them from air and light, and control the temperature. By ensuring kernels are completely dry and placing them in a sealed container, you can choose the optimal method based on your intended use. For short-term needs, a pantry is fine, but for maximum longevity, refrigerating or freezing is the way to go. Most importantly, always follow food safety recommendations by cooking the kernels before eating to neutralize any potential toxins. With these steps, your kernels will remain fresh and safe for future use.

Frequently Asked Questions

For short-term storage (a few weeks), an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry is sufficient. For longer storage (up to a year or more), refrigeration is recommended to maintain freshness and prevent rancidity.

When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, apricot kernels can last up to two years. For maximum longevity, they can be stored in the freezer for over a decade.

The best long-term storage method is to freeze the kernels. Place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag or a vacuum-sealed bag to protect them from air and moisture. This will preserve their quality for many years.

To dry kernels, wash them and spread them in a single layer on a tray. You can air-dry them for several days in a well-ventilated area or use a low-temperature oven (140-150°F / 60-65°C) for several hours with the door slightly ajar until they are brittle.

A resealable plastic bag is acceptable for very short-term storage, but an airtight jar or a heavy-duty freezer bag is much better for preventing oxygen and moisture exposure, which can cause the kernels to go rancid or moldy over time.

Improper storage, such as exposure to moisture, light, and heat, can cause the kernels to develop mold, become rancid, and lose their quality and flavor. Rancid kernels will have an off-putting, sour smell.

Both sweet and bitter apricot kernels should be stored using the same methods to ensure freshness. The main difference lies in their potential toxicity when raw, so both should always be cooked before consumption.