Produce
Frozen, ready-to-eat or for cooking

Frozen FruitShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Not recommended

Frozen fruit must be stored at 0°F (-18°C) or below to maintain quality and safety. Pantry temperatures are too warm.

Refrigerator

Not Recommended

Unsafe for frozen storage; once thawed, treat as fresh fruit and consume within 1-2 days

Thaw frozen fruit in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave. Do not thaw at room temperature. Once thawed, consume promptly.

Freezer

8-12 months

Keep fruit frozen at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Store in original airtight packaging or transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Mold
  • Off-odor
  • Slimy texture (after thawing)
  • Excessive discoloration (beyond normal browning)

Room Temperature Safety

The 2-hour rule applies to thawed fruit: do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if temperature is above 90°F/32°C).

40°F–140°F (4°C–60°C)

Once thawed, fruit should be refrigerated promptly or consumed. Discard any thawed fruit left in the danger zone for too long.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Do not refreeze thawed fruit.

2

Thaw frozen fruit in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave; never at room temperature.

3

Wash hands before and after handling.

4

Avoid cross-contamination with other foods, especially raw meats.

Related Items

Comparisons

Frozen Vegetables
Pantry
Not recommended
Fridge
3-4 days (cooked)
Freezer
8-12 months
Fresh Berries
Pantry
Not recommended
Fridge
3-7 days
Freezer
8-12 months
Fresh Cut Fruit
Pantry
Not recommended
Fridge
1-2 days
Freezer
Not recommended