Expiration & Storage Tips
When does peach expire?
A ripe peach at room temperature will usually stay good for 1 to 2 days. If it's not quite ripe, it can be left at room temperature for 3-5 days, until it ripens. Once ripe, if refrigerated, it can last for up to a week. If you've cut the peach, it should be eaten within a day or two, or it may start to brown and become watery. Peaches can be frozen after being blanched and peeled, and these generally last for around a year in a standard home freezer.
How do you tell if peach is bad?
Spoiled peaches may become moldy, especially around the stem area or any areas with damage or breaks in the skin. They may also start to ooze and have an overtly sweet, fermented smell. Another telltale sign is a change in texture. If the peach's flesh feels overly squishy (beyond regular ripeness) or appears shriveled, it's likely past its prime. Commonly, a rotten peach will also have a sour or off-putting taste.
Tips for storing peach to extend shelf life
• Always store your peaches at room temperature until they are ripe. Once ripe, they can be transferred to the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process and extend their shelf life.
• If you're planning to eat a peach within a day or two, store it on your kitchen counter out of direct sunlight.
• To speed up the ripening process, place peaches in a paper bag at room temperature and avoid overcrowding, as this may lead to bruising.
• Once you've cut a peach, store the leftover halves in the fridge. Arrange them cut-side down in a dish or wrap them tightly in cling film. This helps to keep them from discoloring.
• To freeze peaches, peel them and remove the pit, then cut into slices. Freeze on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring to an airtight bag or container. This process, called flash freezing, helps prevent the peach slices from sticking together.