Do dried beans go stale or bad if stored in a cool, dark place?

[no_hypocrisy]

I want to use some dried black beans that are at least one year in storage since I purchased them.

Some of them (a notable amount) have a light grayish-white powdery color that can be wiped off. Does this mean I should throw them out and buy "fresh" dried beans? Most of them are still black in color. No off smell.

[Scuba]

1. The powdery stuff is likely mold. I'd say toss them.

[no_hypocrisy]

2. Thanks! 'Nuff said.