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How long do cashews last?

Storage times from the U.S. government's USDA FoodKeeper data.

Short answer: Cashews (no shell) keep 6 months in the fridge, 12 months in the freezer and 2–4 weeks in the pantry.

Storage chart

TypePantryFridgeFreezer
no shell2–4 weeks6 months12 months

Fridge at 40°F (4°C) or colder, freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Freezer times are for best quality; food kept frozen stays safe indefinitely.

Keep it longer

Keep the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or colder and the freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Write the date on containers when you open or cook something.

Common questions

How long do cashews last in the fridge?

6 months in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper data.

Can you freeze cashews?

Yes. Frozen at 0°F (−18°C), cashews keep best quality for 12 months. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely; the time is for taste and texture.

How long do cashews last at room temperature?

2–4 weeks in a cool, dry pantry.

How can I tell if cashews have gone bad?

Throw them out if you see mold, a slimy texture, an off smell or an odd color. For anything perishable, go by the storage time rather than smell: bacteria that cause food poisoning don't usually change how food looks or smells.

More shelf stable foods

Source: USDA FoodKeeper data (USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service). Updated 2026-10-13. General information, not medical advice. When in doubt, throw it out.