Yes, sesame oil can go bad. Like other oils, it can become rancid over time, losing its flavor and aroma. This happens because the unsaturated fats in sesame oil oxidize when exposed to air, light, and heat.
Here's how to tell if sesame oil has gone bad:
- Smell: Rancid sesame oil will have a musty, unpleasant odor.
- Taste: It may taste bitter or have a metallic flavor.
- Appearance: The oil might become cloudy or discolored.
How to prolong the shelf life of sesame oil:
- Store it properly: Keep sesame oil in a cool, dark place, ideally in a tightly sealed container.
- Refrigerate it: Refrigeration can help slow down the oxidation process and extend the shelf life of sesame oil.
- Use it within a year: Even unopened sesame oil can go rancid after a year, so it's best to use it within that timeframe.
- Use it up quickly after opening: Once opened, it's best to use sesame oil within a few months.
In general, unopened sesame oil can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Opened sesame oil can last for a few months if stored properly. However, it's always best to use your senses to determine if the oil has gone bad.
