Malt Question

[Plinythelderphan]

Brewers,

I have a sealed factory package of carapils malt that I have not opened. I have had it for about 3 months--do you think it is still useful or does malt have a shelf life even when sealed?

Thanks

 

[bchurch]

Even if its milled it should be ok but I would use it right away, I don't know how correct this is but I was told 3 month shelf life after milled. Sealed may be longer but I always use it when I get it.

 

[McGarnigle]

Commercial kits such as True Brew, Brewer's Best, etc. include milled grains, and I guarantee many of them have been on the shelf for more than 3 months. The grains aren't at peak freshness, but this is almost always the case to some extent with all ingredients.

There's no bright line shelf life for grains. When is the point at which they should be tossed? I'd say considerably longer than 3 months.

 

[charliefoxtrot]

Malt freshness isn't as important as hops freshness, in my opinion. The enzymes aren't doing much if it's dry and at room temperature. If it's gone rancid you'll be able to tell by the horrible flavor. Just chew a couple of pieces and see, or you could soak a sample in some hot water to see if it's still mashable.

I've held onto milled malt for a long time before (a little less than you, but still) and never had it taste any less fresh. The biggest worry I have is bugs.

 

[Plinythelderphan]

Even if its milled it should be ok but I would use it right away, I don't know how correct this is but I was told 3 month shelf life after milled. Sealed may be longer but I always use it when I get it.

The malt is not milled it is whole grain and in an air tight manufacturers bag.

 

[csmurdock]

If it is not milled in its original vaccum sealed packaging then it will last a couple years according to a guy from Briess on brewing network

 

[bchurch]

The malt is not milled it is whole grain and in an air tight manufacturers bag.

Yeah you are all good then. Should be good for a year or longer according to the previous post. Brew it up!

 

[Hackwood]

What about if it's un-milled but not vacuum sealed?

 

[Calder]

What about if it's un-milled but not vacuum sealed?

2 years, store in a cool place (basement) and keep rats away.