Lotus seeds are a common medicinal herb in daily life, known for their ability to clear the mind and relieve irritability. Lotus seed porridge, lotus seed and lily soup, lotus seed honey paste, and other dishes made from lotus seeds are popular and well-liked, but can lotus seeds expire?
Can Lotus Seeds Expire?
Yes, lotus seeds can expire.
Lotus seeds are rich in nutrients and are both used as a food ingredient and a medicinal herb. They have a certain shelf life. Generally, dried lotus seeds have a longer shelf life, around 2 to 3 years when stored in a sealed container at room temperature. If lotus seeds are stored for too long or not stored properly, they can expire.
How to Tell if Lotus Seeds Have Expired
1. Smell.
If lotus seeds are not stored properly, they can become moldy and have a pungent moldy smell. There may be spots or mycelium on the surface, making it easier to identify expired lotus seeds. If lotus seeds have a strange odor, they may have expired.
2. Insect infestation.
Lotus seeds contain certain amounts of sugar, and if not stored correctly, they are prone to insect infestation. Infested lotus seeds may have insect holes on the surface or be hollowed out inside. Lotus seeds are more susceptible to insect infestation when they are damp.
3. Excessive storage time.
If lotus seeds are stored for too long, they may expire and deteriorate, and their medicinal effects may also be affected. Generally, lotus seeds can be stored for 2 to 3 years if stored properly.
Can Expired Lotus Seeds be Eaten?
It is not recommended to eat expired lotus seeds.
Expired lotus seeds may have lost some of their nutritional value, and their medicinal effects may be affected. Especially for moldy lotus seeds, they carry a large number of bacteria, which can be harmful to human health. Therefore, it is not recommended to continue consuming them.
What Happens if You Eat Expired Lotus Seeds?
Expired lotus seeds not only have compromised medicinal effects but also contain more bacteria, microorganisms, and pathogens. Consuming such lotus seeds can potentially harm the body, with the most common symptoms being diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
How to Properly Store Lotus Seeds
Lotus seeds should be kept away from moisture and heat. If lotus seeds get damp, they are more prone to insect infestation, and if they are exposed to heat, the bitter taste from the lotus heart may seep into the flesh. Lotus seeds should be stored in a dry and cool place, preferably in a sealed container such as a glass jar or ceramic bottle. If conditions permit, they can also be refrigerated in the refrigerator.
