Beans

Includes black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, lentils, lima beans, pinto beans, white beans

Buying Buy dried beans in bulk from a store that has a good product turnover. If buying canned beans, choose low-sodium or no-sodium-added varieties.

Storing Store dried beans in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year. Cooked beans can be stored in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Healthy tip Get in the habit of cooking a large batch of beans on the weekend and freezing it (drain and cool beans before storing). You will have more options if you buy dried beans, and they will be more flavorful and lower in sodium than canned beans.