Pre Crushed grains

[Bobb25]

Just got into all-grain brewing this year. When I buy pre-crushed grains they come in a sealed pack. Do I need to use them as soon as possible? Should they be stored in a fridge, and then warmed to room temp before mashing? Been thinking about buying a kit for Sept. brewing. Is this way too soon?
Bob

 

[iijakii]

Room temp, dry, out of sun. No need to refrigerate. Im not sure how long they last exactly, but I've done a month or so without issues. I've heard others go longer as well. But with that said, definitely try to minimize it -- no need to purchase so far in advance. Plan better.

 

[IslandLizard]

What he said^

I've had some crushed grain for 2 years and it was still fine. I did add some fresh malt, just in case the DP had dropped too low. I don't think it had.

But do check the crush, if it is too coarse for your mash process, your efficiency will suffer.

 

[kh54s10]

Sealed is best. Cool and dry is essential. Basement cool is enough. The fridge is a good idea. Warmed to room temperature and/or adjusting your strike temperature is critical, otherwise your mash temperature will be too low.

I would wait until the end of August to purchase ingredients if you plan to brew in the beginning of September.

Get a grain mill. I use a corona style mill at about $25 - $50. Unmilled grain stays fresh much longer. Buying unmilled grains in larger quantities will save you a lot of $$ in the long run.

 

[GuitsBoy]

While I have also had luck with older pre-crushed grains, I started buying larger quantities uncrushed, so that they would keep longer. A corona mill, a drill, and a few modifications to increase hopper size, and catch basin will make quick work of crushing grain for future brews.

 

[daksin]

If it's sealed, you're in better shape, but I would still use them in the next few weeks.