Do you have expired flaxseed oil and do not know how to use it? Rancid flaxseed oil can still be used in a variety of ways. Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is a colorless extract of the dried, ripe seeds of the flax plant.
Flaxseed oil lowers cholesterol and blood sugar, helps with digestive problems and treats inflammatory diseases. The oil comes from the refrigerated section of the store and has an expiration date of about six months from the date of purchase, as well as instructions to keep it refrigerated.
When flaxseed oil decays, it produces a burnt and bitter odor that smells bad. It is called rancid flaxseed oil and smells similar to frying oil. Expired flaxseed may or may not have an odor depending on how rancid it is. In the following article, you will find several ways to use your flaxseed oil.
Can You Use Expired Flaxseed Oil?
How to tell if flaxseed oil has gone bad
The best way to tell if your flaxseed product is rancid is to give it the smell test. If flaxseed has gone bad, giving a burnt and bitter odor. When it is ok, it should have a mild smell. If flax smells like fish or has an otherwise strong odor, it is now rancid.
The risks of consuming expired flaxseed oil
Rancid flaxseed oil can become unstable, and you may be at risk for consuming oxidation products, which can be dangerous (Researchgate.net). Even if it does not pose the risk of poison, it may not harm you, but will not provide the same health benefits as fresh flaxseed because it has been exposed to air.
When it’s safe to use expired flaxseed oil
When expired flaxseed oil does not have any off taste or odor, meaning it is still consumable. Any flaxseed products tinged with such odors are past their prime and should be discarded.
Using expired flaxseed oil in salad dressings
You can add a teaspoon of flaxseed oil to a salad. Combine the flaxseed oil, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a blender.
Adding expired flaxseed oil to smoothies
One tablespoon of flaxseed oil is sufficient for a smoothie. Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid, which is a type of unsaturated omega-3 fatty acid. Adding these types of fat to your smoothie can help you lower your cholesterol level and reduce your risk of heart disease.
Using expired flaxseed oil in baked goods
Flaxseed can replace all of the fat called for in a recipe because of its high oil content. If a recipe calls for 1/3 cup (75 mL) of oil or butter, or other fat, use 1 cup (250 mL) of ground flaxseed to replace it. Use a 3:1 substitution ratio. It can be for baking cookies, pancakes, and muffins. When used for baking, it adds a nutty taste, boosts texture, and adds extra nutrients.
Using expired flaxseed oil in marinades and sauces
Flaxseed oil can be used for low-heat cooking and as a rich addition to salad dressings or sauces. You can make homemade salsa as well. The dishes that hide flaxseed the best are dark sauces or meat mixtures
Making flavored oils with expired flaxseed oil
Mix with olive oil and add to salads, soups, dips, and breakfast treats. You can mix it with castor oil for hair conditioning.
Beauty and Personal Care Uses for Expired Flaxseed Oil
Using expired flaxseed oil as a hair mask
To use flaxseed as a hair mask, pour a small amount of the oil into your hands and massage directly into your hair. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse out and shampoo as normal. The Vitamin E in flaxseed oil helps to treat hair loss and stimulate new hair growth. Lignans are strong antioxidants that can help in the regrowth of healthier and stronger hair. The topical application of flaxseed oil prevents flaking and nourishes the scalp from within, providing relief from dandruff.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a face oil
The fatty acids in flaxseed oil keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. The improved levels of moisture in the skin reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other aging signs. Apply the oil to the skin to soothe irritations or soften roughness.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a lip balm
Apply a teaspoon of flaxseed oil, then layer on a teaspoon of honey for extra hydration, and some Vaseline to seal in all the moisture. This is a home remedy that can treat chapped lips. It contains healthy fatty acids which are nutritious to the body’s epidermis, plus dermis layers. Applying flaxseed oil enables its properties to go through the lip tissues, for topical soft plus smooth lips.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a cuticle oil
Apply a little flaxseed oil to the base of each nail and around the cuticles. Push the cuticles back very using a cotton bud. Spend five minutes or so massaging your hands using your favorite hand cream.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a massage oil
Using flaxseed oil for body massage relieves muscle pain and tension. Also, the muscles get relaxed. It also improves blood circulation in the body and provides relief for joint and bone pain. Massaging the body with linseed oil causes dilation of the blood vessels.
Household and Pet Uses for Expired Flaxseed Oil
Using expired flaxseed oil as a wood conditioner
Linseed oil is one of the most popular woods finishing oil that works for any woodworking project. It enhances the wood’s appearance, enhances the natural color of the wood, and hides dents and scratches.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a leather conditioner
An application of flaxseed oil replenishes leather. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts flaxseed oil; rub this solution into the leather using another clean cloth, and let it sit overnight.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a lubricant for hinges and locks
You can use flaxseed oil, but it is not stable and may go rancid. Food-safe mineral oils such as wood block oil tend to work well.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a supplement for your pet’s diet
Flaxseed oil is a nutritional supplement for dogs and can help to provide anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body. It works as a joint supplement for dogs with arthritis.
Using expired flaxseed oil to keep your pet’s coat healthy
Giving flaxseed oil to dogs can help them have a better coat, making it shinier and even improving some skin conditions
Other Uses for Expired Flaxseed Oil
Using expired flaxseed oil as a natural remedy for constipation
You can stir flaxseed into oatmeal, soup, or cereal for added fiber. Flaxseed oil can treat both constipation and diarrhea. It acts as a laxative to promote regularity and as an antidiarrheal agent. Consume 1 to 4 tablespoons of ground flaxseed per day.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a natural remedy for eczema
Taking flaxseed oil can decrease the redness, swelling, and itchiness of atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema. Taking flaxseed oil as a supplement improves skin’s smoothness, keeps skin hydrated, and decreases skin sensitivity. That can lead to less irritation.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a natural remedy for arthritis
Flaxseed oil is a fatty acid that can help in reducing joint inflammation. It eases arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Using expired flaxseed oil as a natural remedy for dry eyes
Flaxseed oil, like fish oil, contains omega-3s fatty acids, which may improve dry eye symptoms. Flaxseed is recommended by eye doctors and optometrists to help with the treatment of dry eyes due to its nutritional value coming from omega-3. It contains a high level of omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA for short (Harvard.edu).
Using expired flaxseed oil as a natural remedy for high cholesterol
Flaxseed oil may help lower cholesterol levels. The ALA in flaxseed oil might play a role in decreasing low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol.
Conclusion
In summary, using expired flaxseed oil in cooking and baking, as a dietary supplement for your dog, for skin care and hair growth is beneficial. Always check for spoilage before using. Get creative in using expired flaxseed oil instead of throwing it away. Try as many options as possible.
FAQs
What are the benefits of flaxseed oil?
Flaxseed oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health. Here are some of the possible benefits of flaxseed oil:
- Supports heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- May reduce cancer risk by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
- Helps improve digestive health and relieve constipation and diarrhea.
- May improve skin health by relieving dryness, irritation and inflammation.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve symptoms of certain inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
How can I tell if my flaxseed oil has expired?
One way to determine if your flaxseed oil has expired is to smell it. If the oil has gone rancid, it’ll give off a strong and unpleasant odor that may resemble a burnt or bitter smell. In addition, expired flaxseed oil may have a cloudy appearance, a thick consistency and a sour taste.
However, the absence of an unpleasant odor doesn’t necessarily mean that the oil is safe to use after the expiration date. It’s always advisable to check the expiration date on the packaging and dispose of expired oils to avoid possible health risks.
Is it safe to use expired flaxseed oil?
Expired flaxseed oil shouldn’t be used for cooking or consumption because it may have gone rancid and can cause food poisoning or adverse health effects. It’s important to check the expiration date on the packaging and discard expired oils.
However, even if the oil doesn’t appear to have gone rancid, it’s not recommended to use expired flaxseed oil for safety reasons. Therefore, it’s best to discard expired flaxseed oil as soon as possible and buy a new bottle.
Can I cook with expired flaxseed oil?
Expired flaxseed oil should never be used for cooking or consumption because it may have gone rancid and can cause food poisoning or adverse health effects. It’s important to check the expiration date on the packaging and discard expired oils. It should also be noted that flaxseed oil has a low smoke point and isn’t suitable for high heat frying. Instead, it’s best used in salad dressings, smoothies or as a ready-to-use oil for roasted vegetables.
How long can I keep flaxseed oil before it expires?
The shelf life of flaxseed oil depends on several factors, such as the processing method and storage conditions. Generally, unopened flaxseed oil will keep for up to 6 months if stored in a cool, dark place. Opened flaxseed oil should be consumed within 2-4 weeks if kept refrigerated. However, it’s always advisable to check the expiration date on the packaging and follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions to ensure the oil is fresh and safe to consume.