Farro Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
6 months
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
Not needed
shelf-stable
In the freezerFreezer
12 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Farro lasts 6 months in the pantry and 12 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if farro is bad
Smell
Musty, sour or rancid odour.
Texture
Clumping from moisture, or a damp feel.
Pests
Webbing, holes, or tiny insects in the bag.
Flavour
Flat, stale or bitter taste — quality is gone even if it is safe.
Farro past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened farro 6 months in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Farro past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep farro fresh longer
- Benefits from being stored in airtight containers and out of direct light.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, dry place.
- Keep away from the stove and dishwasher, where heat and humidity speed spoilage.
More about farro
FAQ
How long does it take for farro to go bad?
6 months in the pantry, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can farro expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened farro 6 months in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad farro?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep farro from going bad?
Benefits from being stored in airtight containers and out of direct light.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number