AvocadoShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide
Pantry
3-7 days
Store whole, unripe avocados at room temperature (60-70°F / 15-21°C) until ripe. To speed ripening, place in a paper bag with an apple or banana.
Refrigerator
3-5 days
Store whole, ripe avocados in the refrigerator to slow further ripening. Store cut avocados tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container with the pit, possibly with a little lemon or lime juice to prevent browning, for 1-2 days.
Freezer
3-4 months
Avocados can be frozen as a mash or puree. Mash or puree ripe avocado with 1 tablespoon of lemon or lime juice per two avocados to prevent browning. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
Signs of Spoilage
- Dark, sunken spots on the skin or flesh
- Mushy or overly soft texture
- Foul or sour odor
- Mold growth (white, green, or black fuzzy spots)
- Stringy, dark brown, or black flesh
Room Temperature Safety
The 'Danger Zone' for food is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C), where bacteria can multiply rapidly.
Whole, unripe avocados can be stored at room temperature to ripen. Once ripe, or if cut, they should be refrigerated promptly to slow bacterial growth and spoilage.
Safe Handling
Wash avocados thoroughly under running water before cutting, even if you don't plan to eat the skin, to prevent transferring dirt and bacteria from the surface to the flesh.
Use a clean cutting board and knife to prevent cross-contamination.
Refrigerate cut avocados promptly within 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F / 32°C).