Storing Poppy Seeds
Poppy seeds are delicious and the exotic species of this spice are more interesting that the plain white ones that are readily available in the United States. You can purchase real poppy seeds at many specialty stores for cooking and baking. You may wish to purchase only the amount that you need for your project. However, if this is not an option, or you decide to buy in bulk, you will have to take steps to store your poppy seeds correctly. Poppy seeds are high in oil content and therefore go rancid quickly if they are not properly cared for.
Check the date on any poppy seeds you purchase to make sure that they are not close to expiring. Ask your grocer how long the seeds have been on the shelf, and do not purchase any that were not turned over within the last 2 weeks.
Transfer your poppy seeds into an airtight container.
Store your airtight container of poppy seeds in the refrigerator (they will keep for 3-6 months) or in the freezer (they will keep for up to 1 year). Choose a freezer with a fan ventilation system, if possible.
References
Writer Bio
Jourdan Townsend has been writing since childhood. Her articles appear in a collection of student works at the University of Oklahoma as well as in the school's "Honors College Journal." Townsend also composes poetry, some of which can be found in an edition of the "Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans." Townsend holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication.