Expiration & Storage Tips
When does goji berry expire?
Unopened, a sealed bag of goji berries should last for about 1-2 years, so long as they're stored in a cool, dark, dry place. Once the bag is opened, the berries can last up to a year, depending on the storage. Homemade dried goji berries, without added preservatives, have a much shorter shelf life, often lasting for 2-3 weeks. If you choose to freeze your goji berries, they can last in the freezer for up to 12 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon defrosting.
How do you tell if goji berry is bad?
If not properly stored, goji berries can become moldy over time. Always visually inspect your berries, looking for signs of discoloration or fuzzy spots. If they appear darker than usual, or have mold growth on them, then they should be discarded. The smell can also be a telltale sign; a strange or off-putting smell means the berries are no longer good. Additionally, if the berries are overly hard or dessicated, it's better to toss them out.
Tips for storing goji berry to extend shelf life
• Store goji berries in a cool, dry, and dark location to preserve their quality.
• Keep them in a tightly sealed bag or container to prevent exposure to air which can spoil them faster.
• If you've made homemade dried berries, consider keeping them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
• If freezing, place berries in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and store flat in the freezer. Defrost berries overnight in the fridge when ready to use. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
• For long term storage, consider vacuum sealing your bag of berries, as this can drastically extend their shelf life.