Rice is a kitchen staple used in countless recipes around the globe. With varieties like white, brown, jasmine, basmati, and wild rice, it’s a go-to ingredient in many homes. But how long can rice stay good, and does it ever go bad?

This article breaks down how long uncooked and cooked rice lasts, how to spot when it’s no longer safe to eat, and the potential health risks of consuming spoiled rice.

Storage Time for Dry Rice

The shelf life of uncooked rice depends mostly on the variety, with the key difference being between white and brown rice.

Brown rice retains its natural oils since it isn’t as heavily processed as white rice, making it more prone to spoilage over time. White rice, by contrast, is polished and has a longer storage life.

Both types are classified as shelf-stable, meaning they’re safe to keep at room temperature in a dry environment.

General shelf life estimates for dry rice:

• White rice: Up to 2 years

• Brown rice: 3 to 6 months from production

For longer-term storage, placing rice in the refrigerator or freezer can significantly increase its shelf life.

How to Detect Spoiled Dry Rice

Shelf-stable items usually come with a “best by” or “use by” date, but rice can still be safe after that date if no spoilage signs are present.

What to check for in dry rice:

• Damaged packaging or holes

• Presence of insects or larvae

• Moisture or damp spots

• Mold development

Brown rice can also become rancid. Watch out for:

• A sour or unpleasant smell

• Greasy or sticky feel

• Unusual discoloration

To extend the life of dry rice, store it in a cool, dry place—like a pantry—and transfer it to a sealed container after opening to prevent moisture and bugs from getting in.

How Long Does Cooked Rice Stay Good?

Once rice is cooked, its shelf life becomes more consistent across all varieties.

Cooked rice should be stored in the fridge and used within:

• 3 to 4 days, though some people stretch it to a week

If frozen, cooked rice can be kept for up to:

• 8 months

Signs That Cooked Rice Has Gone Bad

It’s fairly easy to tell when cooked rice is no longer good to eat.

Common signs of spoilage in cooked rice:

• A sour or off smell (fresh rice has very little scent)

• Slimy or mushy texture

• Visible mold growth, such as black, green, or blue spots

If you see or smell anything off, it’s safest to throw it out.

Is Expired Rice Dangerous?

Eating old or improperly stored rice can lead to health problems. Spoiled rice may grow mold or fungi that produce mycotoxins, which can cause:

• Upset stomach

• Vomiting and nausea

• Weakened immunity

• Long-term health risks like increased cancer potential

Even if the rice appears fine, mishandling cooked rice can still pose a risk. Bacillus cereus, a type of bacteria that survives cooking, can multiply if rice is left out too long. Its toxins can lead to:

• Abdominal cramps

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

To avoid this, always refrigerate or freeze cooked rice within 2 hours after preparing it.

Summary

Dry rice lasts longer depending on the type—white rice stays fresh for up to 2 years, while brown rice typically lasts 3 to 6 months. Storing rice in a cold or frozen environment can help extend its freshness.

Cooked rice should be refrigerated and used within 4 days, or frozen to keep for several months.

Always watch for changes in appearance, smell, or texture, and throw out any rice that shows signs of spoilage or contamination.