BarleyShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide
Pantry
1 year
Store dry, uncooked barley in a cool, dry place in an airtight container away from pests and direct sunlight.
Refrigerator
3-4 days
Refrigerate cooked barley in a shallow, airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Dry, uncooked barley is not typically stored in the fridge.
Freezer
3-4 months
Freeze cooked barley in airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Dry, uncooked barley is not typically stored in the freezer.
Signs of Spoilage
- For dry barley: Presence of pests, moisture, clumping, or an off odor.
- For cooked barley: Sour or off odor, visible mold, or a slimy/sticky texture.
Room Temperature Safety
40°F–140°F
Cooked barley should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), it should not be left out for more than 1 hour. Dry, uncooked barley is shelf-stable at room temperature.
Safe Handling
Rinse dry barley thoroughly before cooking.
Cook barley to an internal temperature that results in desired tenderness.
Cool cooked barley rapidly within 2 hours before refrigerating or freezing.
Prevent cross-contamination by using separate utensils and surfaces for raw ingredients and cooked foods.