Best storage conditions

Cured, in-shell peanuts keep best in a cool, dry place with low humidity, ideally around 32 to 40 degrees F for the longest storage, though a cool pantry works for shorter periods. Fresh green peanuts are perishable and should be refrigerated and used within a few days. Shelled or roasted peanuts hold their quality longest when refrigerated or frozen in airtight containers.

How long it keeps

Well-cured in-shell peanuts stored cool and dry can last several months, and refrigeration extends that further. Shelled raw peanuts keep a few weeks in a cupboard, several months in the refrigerator, and up to about a year in the freezer. Fresh green peanuts last only a few days before they should be cooked or frozen.

Storage methods

Store cured peanuts in mesh bags or breathable containers in a cool, dry spot so they do not trap moisture. For longer storage, shell the peanuts and keep them in airtight jars or freezer bags in the refrigerator or freezer. Keep them away from strong odors, since peanuts can absorb off flavors.

Freezing & preserving

Peanuts freeze well either raw or roasted, and drying through proper curing is the traditional way to hold a crop. Raw peanuts can be roasted in the shell or shelled, and green peanuts are often boiled fresh. If you want to can boiled peanuts, remember that peanuts are a low-acid food that requires pressure canning, so use only tested USDA or National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) recipes and follow their times and pressures exactly.

Tips

Never store peanuts while they are still damp, since trapped moisture can lead to mold. Cure them thoroughly first, check stored batches now and then, and discard any that smell musty or look discolored.

General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.