Cashew LPs, or Cashew Large Pieces, are a versatile and cost-effective form of cashew nuts. Commonly used in baking, cooking, snacking, and vegan recipes, they offer all the taste and nutritional benefits of whole cashews—just in a more convenient, pre-broken form. However, like all nuts, cashew pieces are prone to spoilage if not stored correctly.
Whether you buy in bulk or keep a small batch in your cupboard, knowing how to store cashew LPs properly is key to maintaining their freshness, flavour, and nutritional value. This guide will walk you through the best storage practices for UK households, ensuring your cashew LPs remain in top condition for months.
Why Proper Storage of Cashew LPs Matters
Cashews contain healthy fats, particularly unsaturated fats, which can turn rancid when exposed to heat, light, moisture, or air. Improper storage can also lead to:
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Loss of flavour
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Stale or rubbery texture
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Contamination by pests
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Mould growth in humid conditions
By storing your cashew pieces correctly, you can avoid waste and enjoy their natural creaminess and nutty taste much longer.
1. Choose an Airtight Container
Once opened, cashew LPs should be transferred from their original packaging into an airtight container. Exposure to air accelerates oxidation, which degrades both taste and nutrition. Ideal storage containers include:
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Glass jars with rubber-sealed lids
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BPA-free plastic containers with tight seals
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Vacuum-sealed storage bags
Avoid storing cashews in thin plastic bags or loosely sealed pouches, as they offer minimal protection against air and moisture.
2. Keep Them in a Cool, Dry, and Dark Place
Temperature and humidity play a significant role in how quickly cashew LPs deteriorate. Store them in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as:
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A kitchen cupboard away from the oven or kettle
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A pantry with stable temperature
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A sealed drawer
Avoid leaving cashew LPs on countertops, near windows, or in areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as next to a radiator.
3. For Longer Shelf Life, Use the Fridge or Freezer
If you buy cashew LPs in bulk or don’t use them frequently, refrigeration or freezing is ideal. Here’s how:
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Refrigeration: Store cashew LPs in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
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Freezing: For long-term storage (up to 12 months), freeze cashew LPs in freezer-safe bags or containers. Just ensure they are well-sealed to avoid freezer burn or moisture exposure.
Always let frozen cashews return to room temperature before use to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.
4. Avoid Moisture at All Costs
Moisture is the enemy of nut storage. Damp cashew LPs can become a breeding ground for mould and bacteria, making them unsafe to eat. Always:
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Use dry utensils when scooping from the container
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Ensure your hands are clean and dry
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Never store cashews in damp environments like under-sink cupboards or near dishwashers
Even slight humidity can ruin a whole batch quickly.
5. Don’t Mix Old and New Batches
It may seem efficient to top up your container with new cashew LPs, but this can lead to cross-contamination and uneven freshness. Always:
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Store new purchases separately
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Finish older batches first (first-in, first-out method)
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Clean containers before refilling
This helps maintain quality and reduces the chance of spoilage spreading from older to fresher nuts.
6. Use Smell and Taste to Check Freshness
Stored cashew LPs don’t always show visible signs of spoilage. Use your senses to assess them:
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Smell: Fresh cashews have a mild, nutty aroma. Rancid cashews may smell sour, metallic, or like paint.
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Taste: Spoiled cashews often taste bitter or unpleasantly sharp.
If in doubt, it’s safer to discard them than risk consuming rancid nuts.
7. Check the Packaging Date
Whether buying from a supermarket, wholesaler, or health food shop, always check the packaging or expiry date. Aim to buy cashew LPs with a long shelf life, especially if you plan to store them for several months.
Also, consider purchasing from reputable UK suppliers who prioritise freshness and proper packaging methods.
Final Thoughts
Cashew LPs are a brilliant, budget-friendly way to enjoy the creamy flavour and health benefits of cashews in your everyday cooking. But like all nuts, they require proper care to stay at their best. By storing them in airtight containers, keeping them away from heat and moisture, and refrigerating or freezing for longer shelf life, you’ll preserve their flavour, texture, and nutritional integrity.
Whether you’re using them in vegan cheese, stir-fries, or snacking straight from the jar, following these cashew storage tips will ensure you always have a fresh supply on hand.