how long does grain last?

[RonPaul]

I am thinking of buying grain in bulk but I'm wondering how long the grain will last before it doesn't have a fresh taste in the beer? Thanks.

 

[scottatdrake]

I'd like to do the same thing. As I understand things, uncrushed grain sealed in an airtight container will last a year or more.

 

[Steelers77]

I'd like to do the same thing. As I understand things, uncrushed grain sealed in an airtight container will last a year or more.

Yes you can get away with this amount of time if stored properly. I personally like to use my grain within 6 months (it really never last that long anyway).

 

[jpoder]

I have stored grain (even milled grain) for a year without noticeable degradation in finished product. Of course I store them in airtight containers (usually homer buckets) in my basement (cool and dry).

I'm always surprised at the people who freak out if they didn't mill their grain seconds before mashing in... my experience has been that it's not a big deal to store grain or even keep milled grain for some time and still have it be good.