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Healthy Living  •  Nourish From the Inside Out

The Shelf Life of Fruits and Vegetables

Kailee Staph, MS, NBC-HWC, CWP, CLC, FNC, CTTS
By Kailee Staph
MS, NBC-HWC, CWP, CLC, FNC, CTTS

Buying fresh produce is one of the best things you can do for your health, but nothing feels worse than opening your fridge to find wilted greens or moldy berries. To reduce waste and keep your meals fresh and flavorful, it’s essential to know how long different fruits and vegetables will last once you bring them home.

While proper storage is key (like refrigerating greens and keeping potatoes in a cool, dark place), knowing the approximate shelf life of your produce can help you plan meals and grocery trips more efficiently. Use this guide to help you prioritize what to eat first — and what can wait until later in the week.

Shelf Life Categories: What to Eat and When

Here’s a breakdown of common fruits and vegetables, sorted by how long they typically stay fresh when stored properly.

1–2 Days

These foods are highly perishable. Use them as soon as possible — ideally within a day or two.

  • Artichokes

  • Asparagus

  • Bananas

  • Basil

  • Broccoli

  • Cherries

  • Corn

  • Dill

  • Green Beans

  • Mushrooms

  • Strawberries

  • Watercress

Tip: These are great for early-week meals. Use them in stir-fries, salads, or smoothies.

2–4 Days

Slightly longer-lasting, but still best enjoyed within a few days.

  • Arugula

  • Avocados

  • Cucumbers

  • Eggplant

  • Grapes

  • Lettuce

  • Limes

  • Pineapple

  • Zucchini

Plan to eat these by midweek. Avocados and pineapples ripen quickly — check them daily!

4–6 Days

These fruits and vegetables are more forgiving and give you some flexibility in your meal planning.

  • Apricots

  • Blueberries

  • Brussels Sprouts

  • Cauliflower

  • Grapefruit

  • Leeks

  • Lemons

  • Oranges

  • Oregano

  • Parsley

  • Peaches

  • Pears

  • Peppers

  • Plums

  • Spinach

  • Tomatoes

  • Watermelon

Perfect for meals later in the week. Keep herbs like parsley and oregano in a glass of water to extend freshness.

7+ Days

These hardy items can last a week or more. They're great staples to keep on hand.

  • Apples

  • Beets

  • Cabbage

  • Carrots

  • Celery

  • Garlic

  • Hard Squash (e.g., butternut, acorn)

  • Onions

  • Potatoes

Store these properly to maximize longevity — many can last for weeks if kept cool and dry.

Grocery Planning Tips
  • Shop with a plan. Buy a mix of short- and long-lasting produce to spread meals throughout the week.

  • Prep perishables first. Chop, wash, or prep short-shelf-life items right away to encourage quick use.

  • Use visual reminders. Keep fragile items front and center in the fridge so you don’t forget about them.

  • Store smart. Use breathable produce bags, and know which items should be refrigerated and which shouldn't.

By understanding the shelf life of your fruits and vegetables, you can waste less, save more, and enjoy peak freshness every day of the week. Happy cooking!


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