How Long Do Pomegranates Last – Choosing, Storing, and Preparing Guide

Ever found yourself pondering, **"how long do pomegranates last?"** I've been there, too. You've lovingly selected this jewel-toned superfruit, only to find it spoiled way too soon. But don't despair! Armed with the right knowledge, you've got the power to stretch the freshness of your pomegranates and their seeds, extending their lifespan and reducing unnecessary waste. This article is your guide to understanding the ins and outs of pomegranate storage, spotting signs of spoilage, and effective preservation methods. So, if you've been troubled by the grim reality of short-lived pomegranates or have battled to maintain their freshness, you're in the right place to discover your pomegranate's potential longevity. Let's dive in, shall we?

**Key Takeaways:**

1. **Pomegranate Shelf Life:** Learn how storing conditions affect the lifespan of your pomegranates and their seeds, and the ways you can ensure they last longer.

2. **Pomegranate Spoilage:** Understand the signs that your pomegranate is past its prime, and when to safely discard it.

3. **Pomegranate Storage Tips:** Master the most effective methods to store your pomegranates and their seeds, from your pantry to your freezer.

# How Long Do Pomegranates Last: A Guide to Freshness and Storage

## How Long Do Unopened Pomegranates Last?

Picture this: you're at the grocery store, and you spot a beautiful, unopened pomegranate. You're tempted to buy it, but then you think, "How long will it actually last?" Well, my friend, if you keep it unopened and store it properly, a pomegranate can last for quite a while.

Research suggests that an unopened pomegranate can last up to two months in the fridge at a temperature of 41°F (or 5°C) [^2^]. That's plenty of time to enjoy its sweet and tangy goodness! But remember, the storage time of pomegranates also depends on how long they were in the supermarket before you purchased them [^2^].

### Observing Pomegranate Expiration Signs

Now, let's talk about how to tell if your pomegranate has gone bad.

After all, we don't want to bite into a spoiled fruit, right?

One of the first signs to look out for is brown or black arils (those juicy red seeds inside the pomegranate). If you notice any discoloration, it's a clear indication that your pomegranate is past its prime.

Additionally, soft or sunken spots, a lighter weight than usual, mold, or any other off-putting appearance are all signs that your pomegranate may have expired [^2^].

But don't worry, if you notice any of these signs, you don't necessarily have to throw the whole fruit away. If only the seeds are bad, you can simply discard the bad ones and salvage the good ones.

However, if the whole fruit is mushy or there's mold, it's best to bid farewell to the entire pomegranate [^2^].

## How Long Do Opened Pomegranates Last?

Now, let's move on to the scenario where you've already opened your pomegranate and enjoyed some of its delicious arils.

How long can you expect it to stay fresh?

Once you've cut open a pomegranate, its lifespan decreases. At room temperature, you can expect an opened pomegranate to last for about a week and a half to two weeks [^2^].

That's still plenty of time to add those juicy arils to salads, desserts, or enjoy them as a healthy snack!

### Changing Quality of Pomegranate Freshness

It's important to note that as time goes by, the quality of the pomegranate's freshness will change. The arils may start to lose their juiciness and become a bit drier.

However, this doesn't mean they're bad or inedible.

They might just not be as luscious as when you first opened the fruit. So go ahead and enjoy them, or consider using them in recipes where the texture isn't as crucial [^2^].

## Should Pomegranates Be Refrigerated?

Pomegranates should indeed be refrigerated, but it's not the only option. Let's delve into this.

Pomegranates can be stored in different conditions, but refrigeration is one of the best ways to preserve their freshness. As we mentioned earlier, an unopened pomegranate can last up to two months in the fridge [^2^].

To store a whole pomegranate on the counter, make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and find a slightly colder spot, like in the pantry [^2^].

Opened pomegranates can be kept fresh by refrigerating them. Just place the unwrapped pomegranate in the fridge and it should stay fresh for up to two weeks.

As for the arils, they can be stored in a sealed container or freezer bag and kept in the fridge for approximately 5 to 7 days.

### Pomegranate Storage Tips for Refrigeration

Now that we've established that refrigeration is a fantastic way to extend the shelf life of pomegranates, let me share some tips to help you store them properly in the fridge:

1. Keep them unwrapped: Unlike some other fruits, pomegranates don't need to be wrapped or placed in a container. Simply place them in the refrigerator as they are.

2. Optimal temperature: Set your fridge to a temperature between 32°F and 41°F (0°C and 5°C) to ensure the pomegranates stay fresh for as long as possible.

3. Avoid overcrowding: Give your pomegranates some breathing room in the fridge. Avoid overcrowding them with other fruits or vegetables, as this can lead to premature spoilage.

## Can Pomegranates Be Stored in Water?

Now, here's an interesting question: can pomegranates be stored in water?

Well, while it may seem tempting to submerge them in water for prolonged freshness, it's not the best idea.

Storing pomegranates in water can actually have a negative effect on their longevity. It can cause the fruit to rot more quickly, leading to an unpleasant and mushy texture [^3^]. So, I would advise against storing your pomegranates in water and opt for refrigeration instead.

### Signs of Pomegranate Rotting in Water

In case you were wondering how to tell if a pomegranate is rotting in water, here are some signs to look out for:

1. Unpleasant odor: If your pomegranate starts emitting a foul smell, it's a clear indication that it has gone bad.

2. Slimy texture: If the arils or the pomegranate's skin feel slimy or mushy, it's a sign of rotting.

3. Mold growth: If you notice any mold on the pomegranate's skin or the arils, it's time to say goodbye to that fruit.

If you come across any of these signs, it's best to discard the pomegranate and avoid consuming it.

## What is the Shelf Life of Pomegranates in the Freezer?

If you're looking for a way to store pomegranates for an even longer period, freezing them is a great option. But how long can you expect them to last in the freezer?

When properly frozen, pomegranates can maintain their quality for up to 3 months [^3^].

That's right, you can enjoy the taste of fresh pomegranates even during the off-season!

### Pomegranate Storage Tips for Freezing

To freeze pomegranates and keep them as fresh as possible, here's a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Pat the seeds dry: Before freezing, make sure to pat the pomegranate seeds dry to minimize the risk of freezer burn.

2. Pre-freeze on a cookie sheet: Spread the seeds out on a cookie sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This will prevent them from clumping together.

3. Transfer to a container or freezer bag: Once the seeds are pre-frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

4. Label and date: Don't forget to label the container or bag with the date of freezing. This will help you keep track of their freshness.

Now you have a stash of frozen pomegranate seeds ready to be used in smoothies, desserts, or as a vibrant garnish whenever you please!

## FAQs on How Long Do Pomegranates Last

To wrap things up, let's address some frequently asked questions about the shelf life of pomegranates:

### How do you know when a pomegranate goes bad?

Look out for brown or black arils, soft or sunken spots, light weight, mold growth, or any off-putting appearance [^2^]. Trust your senses; if something seems off, it's best to discard the fruit.

### Should I refrigerate pomegranate?

Yes, refrigeration is a great way to preserve the freshness of pomegranates.

Place unopened pomegranates in the fridge, and store opened pomegranates and their seeds in a sealed container or freezer bag [^2^].

### How long does a pomegranate last in the freezer?

When properly frozen, pomegranates can last for up to 3 months in the freezer [^3^].

Just remember to follow the freezing tips mentioned earlier for optimal results.