All About Dried fruits
Your complete guide to dried fruits - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Dried fruits Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for dried fruits in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
opened pantry3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive hardening or stickiness, loss of pliability, off-smell (sour, fermented, musty), visible mold, insect infestation (especially if not stored airtight). Sugar crystallization can occur (white, gritty spots), which is a quality issue, not spoilage.
How to Check
Visually check for mold, insects, or unusual stickiness/clumping. Perform a smell test: a fresh, sweet, fruity aroma is good; discard if it smells sour, alcoholic, or musty. Touch test: they should still be somewhat chewy and pliable; discard if rock hard, slimy, or excessively wet.
Storage Tips
Transfer opened dried fruits to an airtight container (e.g., glass jar, heavy-duty resealable bag, plastic container) to prevent moisture re-absorption, oxidation, and pest access. Keep in a cool, dark, dry cupboard or pantry.
opened refrigerator6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Similar to pantry storage, but slower to develop: visible mold, strong off-smell (sour, fermented), extreme hardening that doesn't soften much at room temperature. Sugar crystallization is more common in cold temperatures but is not spoilage.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold, especially if any moisture has entered the container. Smell for any sour, fermented, or unpleasant odors. The texture may be firmer due to cold; let them warm slightly to assess pliability.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration extends the shelf life by slowing down oxidation and mold growth, especially in humid climates. Always use an airtight container to prevent drying out and absorbing fridge odors. Dried fruits may become firmer in the fridge; allow them to come to room temperature before eating for best texture.
unopened pantry6-12 months past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Significant hardening or extreme dryness, unusual discoloration (darkening or white powdery spots that aren't sugar bloom), off-smell (sour, fermented, moldy), visible mold (fuzzy white, green, or black spots), insect infestation (small bugs, webbing).
How to Check
Visually inspect the packaging for any signs of damage or infestation. If transparent, look for mold or insects. Smell the outside of the package for any strong, unpleasant odors. The fruit inside should generally be pliable.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dark, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong odors. The low moisture content makes them very shelf-stable when sealed.
freezer1-2 years (for best quality), indefinitely safe
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (dry, discolored patches, typically lighter in color), significant loss of flavor or aroma after thawing. Mold is extremely unlikely if frozen properly.
How to Check
Visually inspect for excessive freezer burn. After thawing, smell for any off-odors; they should still have a mild, fruity aroma. Taste a small piece to check for flavor degradation.
Storage Tips
For long-term storage, transfer dried fruits to heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight, freezer-safe containers. Press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Can often be used directly from frozen in baking or cooking.