Lemon juice is a fantastic ingredient. It’s packed with nutrients and has beauty benefits. You can even use it as a food preservative or multipurpose cleaner. But like all good things, lemon juice doesn’t last forever. So, how long can you really keep that freshly squeezed goodness in your fridge? Let’s dive into the zesty details!
Why Does Lemon Juice Go Bad?
Lemon juice is an ideal environment for yeast, mold, and bacteria to grow. Once you open a container of lemon juice, it is exposed to air and microorganisms, starting the spoilage process. Over time, the lemon juice can develop mold and bacteria, which makes it taste rancid.
Fresh vs. Commercial: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of lemon juice:
- Freshly Squeezed: This is the juice you get from squeezing lemons yourself. It doesn’t have any additives or preservatives.
- Commercial (Bottled): This is the lemon juice you buy at the store. It usually contains preservatives and has been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that kills harmful microorganisms and extends the shelf life.
Because of pasteurization and preservatives, commercial lemon juice lasts longer than fresh lemon juice.
How Long Does Fresh Lemon Juice Last?
If you’re squeezing for a quick answer, here it is: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will last 3 to 4 days in the fridge. However, this depends on a few factors:
- Storage: Freshly squeezed lemon juice has a shelf life of about 3–4 days if it’s stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
- Temperature: Discard freshly squeezed juice that’s been left at room temperature for more than a day.
How Long Does Commercial Lemon Juice Last?
Commercial lemon juice typically lasts much longer than the fresh kind, thanks to the preservatives and pasteurization process.
- Unopened Bottle: An unopened bottle of commercial lemon juice can last for 3–6 months in the pantry or 6–12 months in the fridge.
- Opened Bottle: Once opened, a bottle of commercial lemon juice should be stored in the refrigerator and can last for 6–12 months.
The Importance of Proper Storage
To maximize the shelf life of your lemon juice, you need to store it properly. Here are some tips:
- Airtight Container: Store lemon juice in an airtight container to minimize its exposure to oxygen and microorganisms.
- Refrigeration: Always store lemon juice in the refrigerator.
- Coolest Spot: Keep it stored in a sealed container towards the back of the fridge where it’s coldest for maximum freshness.
Signs That Your Lemon Juice Has Gone Bad
Even with proper storage, lemon juice will eventually go bad. Here are some signs to look for:
- Strange Odor: Spoiled lemon juice may develop a strange or off-putting odor.
- Change in Color: If the lemon juice changes color, it may be a sign of spoilage.
- Mold: Check for any signs of mold growth.
- Off Taste: You may notice it has a slightly off taste. Over time, it can grow mold and bacteria, making the taste 10/10 rancid.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw the juice away.
What Happens If You Drink Spoiled Lemon Juice?
Drinking spoiled lemon juice can lead to food poisoning. Food poisoning can cause irritation or infection in the digestive tract. Symptoms of food poisoning include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Tips for Using Lemon Juice Before It Spoils
To avoid wasting lemon juice, here are some tips for using it up quickly:
- Lemonade: Make a refreshing batch of lemonade.
- Salad Dressing: Add lemon juice to your favorite salad dressing recipe.
- Marinades: Use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
- Cocktails: Mix up some cocktails that call for fresh lemon juice.
- Cleaning: Use lemon juice as a natural cleaner for your home.
What to Do With an Abundance of Lemons
If you have an abundance of lemons, here are some ideas:
- 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.
- Canning: Properly canned lemon juice can last for years. To can the juice, bring the lemon juice to a boil.
- Sorbet: Try making three-ingredient sorbet, using the citrus peels as adorable (and biodegradable) bowls.
Final Thoughts
Lemon juice is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can add a lot of flavor to your favorite recipes. By following these tips, you can maximize its shelf life and avoid waste. Freshly squeezed lemon juice lasts up to four days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Pasteurized store-bought juice can last 3–6 months in the pantry or up to a year in the fridge.