All About Figs
Your complete guide to figs - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Figs Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for figs 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.
Fresh Figs - At Room Temperature (for ripening)1-2 days (to ripen), then consume immediately
Signs of Spoilage
Excessively soft or mushy spots, sour or fermented smell, visible mold (white or green fuzz), sticky residue.
How to Check
Visually inspect for any discoloration, mold growth, or sticky film. Gently touch the fig – it should yield slightly but not feel mushy. Smell for any off-odors; a fresh fig has a mildly sweet aroma.
Storage Tips
Place figs in a single layer away from direct sunlight. Once ripe, they are highly perishable and should be eaten quickly or moved to the refrigerator.
Fresh Figs - In the Refrigerator (ripe)2-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Very soft or watery texture, mushiness, strong sour or fermented odor, visible mold (white, green, or black fuzz), sticky or slimy exterior.
How to Check
Visually check for any mold, dark spots, or a general dullness in color. Gently squeeze – a good fig will be soft but hold its shape; a bad one will feel mushy or burst. Smell for any sour, alcoholic, or unpleasant off-odors.
Storage Tips
Store figs unwashed in a single layer on a paper towel in an open container or loosely covered with plastic wrap in the coldest part of your refrigerator (usually the crisper drawer). Moisture is the enemy; avoid airtight containers. Wash gently just before eating.
Fresh Figs - In the Freezer6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (dry, discolored patches), strong off-flavors (though usually just texture degradation is the primary concern). While safe beyond 12 months, quality will diminish.
How to Check
Visually inspect for excessive ice crystals or dry, shriveled spots indicative of freezer burn. The color might be duller. Taste test a small piece if thawed for any unpleasant flavors (though typically, it's a texture issue).
Storage Tips
Wash and pat figs completely dry. Remove the stems. You can freeze them whole or sliced. For best results, flash freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator or use directly in cooking.
Dried Figs - In the Pantry6-12 months (unopened), 3-6 months (opened)
Signs of Spoilage
Hard, excessively dry, or brittle texture (beyond normal dried state), visible mold growth, sour or fermented smell, insect infestation (small holes, webs, or actual insects).
How to Check
Visually inspect for any mold, unusual discoloration, or signs of insect activity. Feel the figs – they should be pliable but not excessively hard or sticky. Smell for any sour, musty, or off-odors. If they look or smell suspicious, discard them.
Storage Tips
Store dried figs in an airtight container or original sealed packaging in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep them sealed to prevent moisture absorption and pest infestation.
Dried Figs - In the Refrigerator6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Similar to pantry storage: mold, sour smell, excessive hardness, or insect activity, though refrigeration significantly reduces these risks.
How to Check
Same as pantry storage: visual inspection for mold or insects, feel for texture, and smell for off-odors.
Storage Tips
Transfer opened dried figs to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag before refrigerating. This helps maintain their moisture content and prevents them from absorbing odors from other foods.
Dried Figs - In the Freezer1-2 years
Signs of Spoilage
While still safe, quality may degrade after 2 years, leading to a tougher texture or slight loss of flavor. Freezer burn is possible but less common than with fresh fruit.
How to Check
Visually check for any unusual ice buildup or signs of freezer burn. The primary concern here is quality, not safety, if stored correctly.
Storage Tips
Store dried figs in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss. Squeeze out as much air as possible from bags. Thaw at room temperature or use directly in recipes.