Expiration & Storage Tips
When does meyer lemon expire?
Unopened and stored at room temperature, Meyer Lemons generally last about 1-2 weeks. When kept in the refrigerator, they can extend up to a month. However, remember this can vary depending on the freshness of lemons when purchased. If you've decided to freeze them, they can stay good up to 3-4 months in an airtight bag. Once cut or juiced, Meyer lemons should be used within 2-3 days, even if refrigerated.
How do you tell if meyer lemon is bad?
Meyer Lemons start to darken in color and develop soft or hard spots when they begin to go bad. The skin may appear wrinkled and the fruit can have an unpleasant smell. Inside, rotten lemons will have a brownish color and the texture will be mushy. An off taste can also be an indication of spoilage.
Tips for storing meyer lemon to extend shelf life
• Store the lemons in a cool, dark place away from sunlight if you plan on using them within a week.
• If you wish to store them for a longer time, put them in a ventilated plastic bag and keep them in the cooler section of your refrigerator.
• Always wash Meyer lemons before using them. However, it is advised to avoid washing lemons at the time of storing because moisture quickens decay. This is true for storing in both refrigerator and room temperature.
• To freeze Meyer lemons, you can juice them and freeze the juice in ice cube trays. You can also freeze the whole lemon. Before using, thaw it in the refrigerator or place it under cool running water for a few minutes.