Orange juice is a beloved staple in households around the world. Whether it’s freshly squeezed or store-bought, this tangy and vitamin-packed beverage is often the go-to choice for breakfast or a refreshing midday drink. But how long will orange juice keep in the fridge? Let’s dive into the details so you can enjoy your OJ at its freshest.
The Shelf Life of Orange Juice: Fresh vs. Store-Bought
The longevity of orange juice depends on its type and how it’s stored. Here’s a breakdown:
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
Freshly squeezed orange juice is as natural as it gets, but its lack of preservatives means it has a shorter shelf life. When stored in the refrigerator at 32–40°F (0–4°C), fresh orange juice typically lasts 2 to 3 days. If you’ve added a natural preservative like vitamin C, you might extend its life to 4 days, but beyond that, it’s best to toss it.
Leaving fresh orange juice out at room temperature for more than 2 hours can lead to bacterial growth, making it unsafe to drink. Always refrigerate immediately after squeezing.
Store-Bought Pasteurized Orange Juice
Pasteurized orange juice, which undergoes heat treatment to kill bacteria, lasts longer than fresh-squeezed varieties:
– Unopened cartons from the refrigerated section: These can last up to 10 days past their printed date if kept cold.
– Opened cartons: Once opened, pasteurized orange juice should be consumed within 7 to 10 days.
– Shelf-stable cartons (before opening): These can be stored at room temperature for 3–9 months, but once opened, they need refrigeration and should be consumed within a week.
Cold-Pressed Orange Juice
Cold-pressed juices retain more nutrients but are highly perishable. Refrigerated cold-pressed orange juice lasts about 4–5 days. Freezing can extend its life up to 3–4 months, though you may notice slight changes in flavor and texture.
Signs Your Orange Juice Has Gone Bad
Even with proper storage, orange juice doesn’t last forever. Here are some telltale signs that your OJ has spoiled:
– Acrid or sour smell: A strong off-putting odor indicates fermentation or bacterial growth.
– Changes in color: Fresh orange juice should be bright and vibrant. If it turns brownish, it’s likely oxidized or spoiled.
– Mold or sediment: Visible particles or mold are clear signs it’s time to discard.
– Off taste: If your juice tastes fizzy or overly sour, it’s likely fermented and unsafe to drink.
When in doubt, throw it out! Drinking spoiled orange juice can lead to foodborne illnesses.
Tips for Storing Orange Juice Longer
Want your OJ to stay fresh as long as possible? Follow these tips:
- Refrigerate immediately: Whether freshly squeezed or store-bought, always keep your orange juice chilled.
- Seal tightly: Use an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and bacteria.
- Freeze for extended storage: Pour orange juice into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Frozen orange juice can last up to a year but should be consumed within 3–6 months for optimal flavor.
- Check expiration dates: Always adhere to the “use by” date on store-bought cartons and consume opened containers promptly.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Improperly stored orange juice not only loses its flavor but also becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli. Pasteurization helps reduce this risk in commercial juices, but once opened or exposed to air, even pasteurized juice is susceptible.
Fresh juices are particularly vulnerable since they lack preservatives. Always prioritize refrigeration and consume them quickly for safety and taste.
Can You Drink Orange Juice Past Its Expiration Date?
The “best by” date on store-bought orange juice refers to quality rather than safety. Unopened pasteurized juices might still be good a few days past this date if they’ve been properly refrigerated. However, always inspect for signs of spoilage before drinking.
For freshly squeezed juices, expiration dates are less flexible due to their short shelf life and lack of preservatives.
Orange juice is best enjoyed fresh and flavorful—don’t let improper storage cut your enjoyment short! By following these simple guidelines, you’ll know exactly how long your favorite citrus beverage will keep in the fridge while staying safe and delicious.