Check the Appearance High-quality almonds should be whole, unbroken, and have a smooth surface. Avoid almonds with cracks, holes, or signs of discoloration, which could indicate damage or spoilage. The color should be a consistent light brown with no black spots.
Smell the Almond Fresh almonds should have a mild, nutty scent. If the almonds have a rancid, sour, or musty smell, this could indicate that they have gone bad due to exposure to heat, light, or moisture.
Inspect for Mold Check for any visible mold, which can appear as fuzzy patches. Moldy almonds should be discarded immediately, as they may contain harmful mycotoxins.
Taste Test If you’re unsure about the freshness of the almonds, try tasting one. Fresh almonds should have a crunchy texture and a pleasant, slightly sweet flavor. If they taste bitter, off, or stale, they may be old or spoiled.
Check the Packaging If you’re purchasing packaged almonds, check the expiration date or best-by date. Choose almonds that have been stored in airtight packaging to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can cause them to become rancid.
Check for Oiline Almonds that feel excessively oily or greasy might have started to go rancid. While almonds are naturally high in healthy fats, excessive oiliness can be a sign of deterioration.
Look for Shell Condition (for In-Shell Almonds) For in-shell almonds, check the condition of the shells. They should be firm, undamaged, and free from cracks. If the shells are cracked or damaged, the nuts inside could be stale or have been exposed to moisture.