How to Store Dates and Nuts So They Actually Stay Fresh

Premium dates and nuts aren't cheap, so it's worth taking storage seriously — most of what ruins them is simple: heat, air and moisture.

Dates. Left in a warm kitchen, soft dates like Medjool or Ajwa will slowly dry out and can develop sugar crystals on the surface within a few weeks. The fix is straightforward: keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they'll comfortably keep for 6-12 months. If you want them soft and at room temperature for serving, take out only what you'll eat in the next day or two.

Nuts. This is the one people get wrong most often. Nuts contain natural oils that turn rancid when exposed to heat, light and air over time — which is why nuts bought in bulk and left in a pantry can start tasting "off" or bitter within a couple of months. Almonds and walnuts in particular are prone to this. Store nuts in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for the best shelf life; a freezer bag of walnuts will keep well for up to a year.

Saffron. Keep threads in their original airtight container, away from light and heat — a kitchen cabinet is better than anywhere near the stove. Properly stored, saffron keeps its potency for 2-3 years.

One habit worth building: whatever you buy, transfer it out of its shipping bag into an airtight jar the day it arrives. It's a two-minute habit that meaningfully extends how long everything stays good.