Packaging

• Small quantities of brown rice typically come in a plastic bag, while larger quantities are usually sold in wax-lined paper bags. You can leave unopened brown rice in the store bag, but for maximum storage length, place these in an airtight container. Glass or plastic storage containers with tight fitting lids work well for small quantities, but food grade 5-gallon buckets are optimum for longer storage of greater quantities of the rice. These containers prevent moisture, insects and dust from getting into the stored rice.

Short Term Storage

• The cooler the location, the longer you can keep the rice without the natural oils in the grains going rancid. Any cool, dark pantry will suffice for storing the rice for up to six months, as long as you keep it in a sealed container. If you open the container often or live in a humid area, consider placing packets containing desiccants, such as silica gel, in the buckets to prevent moisture problems and to help prolong storage.

Long Term Storage

• Refrigeration or freezing can prolong the storage life of brown rice for a year or longer, because the oil won't go rancid as quickly. Frozen dry rice tastes as good as fresh once thawed and can retain its quality. Refrigeration doesn't extend the life as long as freezing, but it will keep the rice fresh for at least one year. Double-package rice stored in the freezer or refrigerator to provide further protection from condensation and freezer burn. Freezer-safe storage containers have thicker walls and are less prone to breakage.

Cooked Rice

• Cooked brown rice stores for up five days when refrigerated. Do not leave the rice out at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent the chances of foodborne illness. You can place warm rice directly in the refrigerator to cool down if you store it in a shallow, 2-inch-deep container so it cools quicker. Leave the lid off while it's cooling in the fridge; instead cover it loosely with wax paper until it's cold, and then place the lid on the container. Only use storage containers that seal tightly so the brown rice doesn't dry out.