Oats are not an entirely new concept as they have been around for a very long time. With that being said, their preparation can vary and some may not utilize them properly without ever knowing it. A good example of this is oats gluten free which often caters to a particular audience. Let us explore some tips on how to help you maximize the use of your oats.
Get the Appropriate Product
Oats today come in different shapes and sizes each having its unique feature and traits that help set them apart from each other. Some may think that they are remotely similar but they often serve a different purpose. For instance, quick oats are ideal for those who have a busy schedule as these can be prepared in just a short amount of time. Those who want a healthier option can go with organic oats which are usually more expensive as they don’t have chemicals or other additives found with regular oats. Some share the same traits like oats gluten free which reduces the risk of gluten allergies.
Observe Proper Storage
The effectiveness of your oats will depend on their storage. This in turn makes it important that you keep them in a cool, clean and dry place keeping them away from children’s reach. You may also want to invest in getting a resealable plastic bag or glass container making sure that they are tightly covered when not in use. If you are not planning on using the oatmeal for a considerable period, you may want to consider freezing them which goes a long way in helping increase their shelf life.
Be Mindful of the Expiration Date
It is important to note that just like any other food, oats will also have their respective expiration dates. These products have an incredibly long shelf life taking 2 years before they expire. With that being said, you must take note of the expiry date that is usually posted at the back of the packaging. You need to be mindful of this especially if you decide to transfer their contents to a different container.
If you do happen to forget the expiration date, make sure that you practice caution by looking at their finer details. For instance, expired oats can produce an off-putting stench which makes it a good idea to smell them first. Aside from that, discoloration or changes in their appearance may also occur and this is often caused by moulds. Pantry pests will also become a recurring issue with expired oats making them problematic to eat. Fortunately, these types of products have become more accessible with the help of the internet which makes it fairly easy to order a new batch and have them delivered straight through your doorsteps.
