Produce
Fresh, raw

ScallionsShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Not recommended for quality

Scallions will wilt quickly at room temperature. For best quality and safety, store in the refrigerator.

Refrigerator

7-10 days

Store unwashed scallions in a plastic bag or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the crisper drawer. Alternatively, place root-end down in a glass with about an inch of water, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate.

Freezer

10-12 months for best quality, safe indefinitely

Wash, trim, and chop scallions. Blanching is not required. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Slimy or mushy texture
  • Strong, unpleasant odor
  • Yellowing or browning of the green tops
  • Visible mold growth
  • Excessive wilting or drying out

Room Temperature Safety

Perishable food should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), food should not be left out for more than 1 hour.

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

Scallions, like most fresh produce, should be refrigerated promptly after purchase to maintain quality and safety. Do not leave them out at room temperature for extended periods.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Wash scallions thoroughly under cool running water before use, especially if they have visible soil.

2

Remove any outer layers that are slimy or discolored.

3

Avoid cross-contamination by keeping fresh produce separate from raw meats, poultry, and seafood.

4

Use clean cutting boards, utensils, and hands when preparing.

Related Items

Comparisons

Chives (fresh)Similar storage durations to scallions.
Fridge
7-10 days
Freezer
10-12 months for best quality, safe indefinitely
Leeks (fresh)Leeks can last slightly longer in the fridge.
Fridge
1-2 weeks
Freezer
10-12 months for best quality, safe indefinitely
Onions (whole, raw)
Pantry
1-2 months (in a cool, dry, dark place, not refrigerated before cutting or peeling unless specified for sweet/mild varieties or after cutting/peeling). Sweet/mild onions: 1-2 weeks in fridge after purchase. Peeled onions: 1-2 weeks in fridge. Cut onions: 7-10 days in fridge. Cooked onions: 3-4 days in fridge. Cooked onions: 10-12 months in freezer. Raw, whole onions: Not recommended for freezing unless chopped/prepared first for best quality. Chopped raw onions: 10-12 months in freezer.