Lemon juice is a popular ingredient in many recipes, from lemonade to salad dressings. It’s also a good source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. But like all perishable food and beverage items, lemon juice doesn’t last forever. So, does lemon juice expire in the fridge? The answer is yes, but how long it lasts depends on a few factors.
Fresh vs. Bottled Lemon Juice
The shelf life of lemon juice largely depends on whether it is fresh-squeezed or commercially bottled.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best consumed within one to four days, depending on how you store it. Fresh lemon juice will last about a day at room temperature or up to 4 days in the fridge when stored properly. Lemons are slightly more forgiving than limes. Fresh lime juice can develop an off flavor within just twenty-four hours, while lemon juice can last for up to a few days. After that, both juices may taste bland or “off,” not to mention they can be dangerous to consume.
Bottled lemon juice: Due to pasteurization and added preservatives, commercial bottled lemon juice has a much longer lifespan. An unopened bottle can last for 3–6 months in the pantry or 6–12 months in the fridge. Once opened, bottled lemon juice can last 6-12 months stored in the refrigerator. Unopened bottled lemon juice can last for a couple of months past the best-by date. If opened after the expiration date, use within 1-2 months.
How to Store Lemon Juice Properly
The best way to store all fresh or commercial lemon juice is in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. This minimizes its exposure to oxygen and microorganisms that lead to speedy spoilage. After juicing a lemon, lime, or other citrus fruit, you should transfer the juice to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator as soon as possible. When citrus juice is exposed to air, it immediately begins to oxidize and turn less fresh. For these reasons, you should ideally juice your citrus right before using it in your food or beverages.
*PSA*: Discard freshly squeezed juice that’s been left at room temp for more than a day.
Signs of Spoilage
Even when stored properly, lemon juice will eventually go bad. Here are some signs of spoilage to look out for:
- Change in color: If the lemon juice has darkened or changed color, it may be a sign that it has gone bad.
- Change in taste: If the lemon juice tastes sour, bitter, or off, it is likely spoiled.
- Strange odor: When lemon or lime juice has spoiled, it may develop a strange odor.
- Mold: If you see any signs of mold, discard the juice immediately.
If you’re unsure of its safety, toss the juice out.
Tips to Prolong the Shelf Life of Lemon Juice
Here are some tips to help prolong the shelf life of your lemon juice:
- Store in an airtight container: As mentioned earlier, storing lemon juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator is the best way to keep it fresh.
- Use clean utensils: When using lemon juice, always use clean utensils to avoid introducing bacteria into the juice.
- Freeze it: You can significantly prolong the shelf life of citrus juice by moving it from the fridge to the freezer. Simply pour the juice into an ice cube tray, which will make it easier to use as needed, and freeze it for up to three months.
What to Do with an Abundance of Lemons
If you find yourself with an abundance of lemons and limes, and some free time, try making three-ingredient sorbet, using the citrus peels as adorable (and biodegradable) bowls. These make for an impressive dessert, so invite some friends over and you can burn through some more citrus in the form of batched cocktails and big bowls of guacamole. Just make sure that you keep the juice in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Conclusion
Lemon juice does expire, but its shelf life can be extended by storing it properly. Freshly squeezed lemon juice lasts only a few days in the fridge, while bottled lemon juice can last for months. Always store lemon juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and be sure to look out for signs of spoilage before using it.