The Italian equivalent of cornmeal, polenta has transformed over the years from a peasant staple into comfort food. You can cook this versatile flour into a soft creamy porridge, fry, bake or grill it into firm wedges and use as a substitute for bread or as an accompaniment with stews, meat and fish. Polenta is available in different textures including fine and stoneground powders, as well as an instant pre-cooked variety. No matter what type you choose to use, you must properly store polenta to prevent it from spoiling and losing its flavor.

Refrigerate stoneground polenta in a resealable airtight container for approximately two months. Stoneground polenta contains oil from the germ of the corn and will spoil if left unrefrigerated.

Place unopened and uncooked leftover fine-ground polenta in a cool, dry area away from moisture for up to two years. If you have leftover fine-ground polenta, pour it in a resealable airtight container before storing it. Fine-ground polenta keeps for a longer period as it is de-germinated and does not contain the oil from the germ.

Keep unopened instant polenta in a cool, dry area for approximately two months. Store leftover instant polenta in a resealable airtight container in the fridge for around two days.