Expiration & Storage Tips
When does golden beet expire?
Golden beets, much like other root vegetables, have a good amount of longevity. If unopened and left in their original bunch, they can last for about 2 weeks. Once individual beets have been removed from the bunch, their shelf life shortens to 1 week. Once cut or peeled, the beets should be consumed within 2 to 3 days. Their shelf life can be extended significantly if frozen, remaining up to a year fresh, provided that they have been properly blanched before being stored in airtight containers.
How do you tell if golden beet is bad?
When golden beets begin to spoil, you will notice some telltale signs. They would become soft and wrinkled, a stark comparison to their usual firmness. You might notice a slime forming on the surface, indicating bacterial growth. A rotten smell, while unlikely, is a sure sign of spoilage. Lastly, if you cut the vegetable open and see any dark spots or patches inside, it's time to toss them into the compost bin.
Tips for storing golden beet to extend shelf life
• For whole, uncut golden beets, store them in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer or crisper without washing or cutting them. The cool temperature slows down the rate of spoilage.
• If you've bought beets with the tops still attached, make sure to separate the tops from the root as soon as you get home. The greens draw moisture away from the root, which speeds up spoilage.
• To freeze golden beets, wash and trim them before blanching. Cool them promptly in ice water after blanching, then drain and pack into freezer containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• If you've cut or peeled your golden beets but are not going to use the whole amount at once, keep the remainder in a sealed container in the fridge. Storing cut beets in water can prevent discoloration and drying out.