Expiration & Storage Tips
When does lime expire?
Limes, like other citrus fruits, can stay fresh for quite a while. Unopened and left at room temperature, they can last for about a week. However, if you store them in the refrigerator, they can remain fresh for up to 3-4 weeks. Once the lime has been cut open, it should be used within a few days as the fruit will start to dehydrate and lose its fresh taste. If you decide to freeze your lime, it can last up to 3-4 months. When it comes to lime juice, it generally lasts about a week in the fridge and up to a few months in the freezer.
How do you tell if lime is bad?
A lime that's past its prime will have a shriveled skin and start losing its bright green color turning yellowish or even brownish. Also, the fruit will become hard and will not yield to pressure when you press the skin. Once cut open, the inside can become dry and the smell will not be as strong as a fresh lime. If a lime has gone moldy or has developed black spots on the skin, it's best to throw it away. If you're dealing with lime juice, a fermented smell or change in color to a darker, murkier tone might be a sign of it going bad.
Tips for storing lime to extend shelf life
• Store unopened limes in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
• Once you've cut open a lime, either use it all at once or tightly wrap the remaining portion in cling wrap or place it in a zip-top bag and refrigerate. Remember to use it within a few days.
• Slicing limes and freezing them can be a really handy trick. You can use frozen lime slices directly in your drinks.
• Whenever possible, choose to store limes in the refrigerator. A low-moisture crisper drawer is an ideal location. This slows down the ripening process and helps them keep their freshness for longer.
• If you've got extra limes on hand that you can't use before they go bad, consider juicing them and freezing the juice in ice cube trays. Once frozen, you can transfer the lime juice cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage. Use them in recipes or drinks whenever you need.
• Another great way to preserve lime is by zesting it before it goes bad. The zest can be stored in a sealed container and kept in the freezer, ready to add a pop of flavor to your dishes anytime.