Produce
Raw

Red BeetShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

1-2 weeks

Store unwashed beets with greens removed in a cool, dark, dry place (e.g., a cool pantry or basement). Do not wash until ready to use.

Refrigerator

2-4 weeks

Remove greens, leaving about an inch of stem. Do not wash. Store unwashed beets in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.

Freezer

8-12 months

Wash, peel, and cook beets until tender. Cool quickly, then freeze whole or cut into pieces. Pack into airtight freezer bags or containers.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Soft or mushy texture
  • Slimy surface
  • Mold growth
  • Off-odor
  • Significant discoloration

Room Temperature Safety

Perishable foods should not be left 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).

Raw beets, once cut or cooked, should be refrigerated promptly. Whole, unwashed raw beets can be left at cool room temperature for a few days, but refrigeration is recommended for longer storage.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Wash beets thoroughly under running water before peeling or cutting.

2

Prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw produce and other foods.

3

Cooked beets should be cooled rapidly and refrigerated within 2 hours.

Related Items

Comparisons

Raw Carrots
Pantry
Not recommended for long-term storage
Fridge
2-3 weeks
Freezer
8-12 months (blanched)
Raw Parsnips
Pantry
Not recommended for long-term storage
Fridge
2-3 weeks
Freezer
8-12 months (blanched)
Raw Potatoes
Pantry
1-2 months (cool, dark place)
Fridge
Not recommended
Freezer
10-12 months (cooked/blanched)