All About Fresh lemon juice
Your complete guide to Fresh lemon juice - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Fresh lemon juice Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for Fresh lemon juice 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.
Frozen3-6 months
Signs of Spoilage
Significant loss of flavor or aroma upon thawing, or freezer burn (though this primarily affects quality, not safety). If not properly sealed before freezing, or if thawed and then refrozen improperly, mold could develop.
How to Check
Upon thawing, it should still have a discernible lemon scent, though it may be less vibrant than fresh. Taste a small amount; it should still be tart and lemon-like. Discard if it smells off, tastes excessively bitter, or shows any signs of mold after thawing.
Storage Tips
Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This method is excellent for extending shelf life and having lemon juice readily available for cooking or beverages. Thaw in the refrigerator or use directly from frozen in hot dishes.
Freshly Squeezed, Refrigerated2-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Unusual cloudiness or murkiness beyond its natural slight opacity, visible mold growth (white, green, or black spots/fuzzy patches), fermented or yeasty off-odors, or a significantly dulled/bitter taste.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or unusual discoloration. Smell for any off, sour, or fermented aromas that aren't fresh citrus. If visual and smell tests pass, a very small taste can confirm freshness; it should be bright and acidic. Discard if any doubt.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container (glass bottle or jar is ideal) to prevent oxidation and absorption of other refrigerator odors. While it may be safe for up to 5-7 days, the quality (flavor, aroma, vitamin C content) rapidly degrades after 2-4 days.