Produce
Raw

CauliflowerShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Not recommended

Store in the refrigerator for best quality and safety.

Refrigerator

1 to 2 weeks

Store whole, unwashed cauliflower in a loosely sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. Do not wash until ready to use.

Freezer

10-12 months

For best quality, blanch cauliflower florets for 3 minutes before freezing. Cool quickly, drain, pack into airtight freezer bags or containers, and freeze.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Soft spots or mushy texture
  • Discoloration (yellowing or browning florets)
  • Off-odor or foul smell
  • Presence of mold

Room Temperature Safety

Follow the 2-hour rule: Do not leave perishable foods, including cut or cooked cauliflower, at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), the limit is 1 hour.

The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).

For whole, uncut cauliflower, quality will degrade quickly at room temperature. For cut or cooked cauliflower, refrigerate promptly within 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling fresh produce.

2

Wash cauliflower under cool running tap water just before preparing or eating. Do not use soap or detergents.

3

Cut away any bruised or damaged areas before eating.

4

Keep cauliflower separate from raw meat, poultry, and seafood to prevent cross-contamination.

Related Items

Comparisons

Broccoli (raw)Similar cruciferous vegetable, often requires blanching for freezing.
Pantry
Not recommended
Fridge
3-5 days
Freezer
10-12 months