All About Mint leaves
Your complete guide to mint leaves - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Mint leaves Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for mint leaves 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.
frozen6-8 months
Signs of Spoilage
Significant freezer burn (dry, shriveled, discolored spots), complete loss of aroma and flavor (though this is a quality issue more than a safety one), development of an off-odor after thawing.
How to Check
Visually inspect for excessive ice crystals or dry, shriveled spots (freezer burn). While frozen, the aroma will be minimal. After thawing, the texture will be much softer/mushier than fresh, but it should still smell faintly of mint. Discard if it has an off-odor post-thaw or looks excessively dry/discolored.
Storage Tips
To freeze: Wash and thoroughly dry leaves. You can either freeze whole leaves on a baking sheet then transfer to an airtight freezer bag, or chop and freeze in ice cube trays with a little water or oil. Best for use in smoothies, soups, sauces, or teas where texture is less critical. Blanching briefly before freezing can help retain color.
dried in pantry1-3 years
Signs of Spoilage
Loss of color (fading to dull green/brown), significantly diminished or absent mint aroma, musty or sour smell, presence of mold (if moisture gets in), presence of pantry pests (small insects, webbing).
How to Check
Visually inspect for vibrant color (should still be green, not completely brown). Crush a small amount between your fingers and smell; it should have a clear, pleasant mint aroma. A musty or damp smell, or visible mold, means it's spoiled. Check for any signs of insect activity. While safe to consume beyond 3 years, the flavor will be significantly reduced.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold; ensure leaves are completely dry before storing.
fresh in fridge (properly stored)5-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Leaves turning dark brown or black, becoming slimy or mushy, significant wilting, strong unpleasant or 'off' odor, visible mold (white, green, or black fuzzy spots).
How to Check
Visually inspect for discoloration (dark spots, yellowing), sliminess, or mold. Gently touch the leaves; they should feel crisp and firm, not limp or mushy. Smell for a fresh, vibrant mint aroma; a lack of aroma or an off-putting, musty, or sour smell indicates spoilage.
Storage Tips
To extend freshness: Wrap unwashed mint in a slightly damp paper towel, then place in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container. Alternatively, place stems in a glass of water like a bouquet, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate. Change water every 1-2 days. Wash only right before use.
fresh in fridge (original packaging)2-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Rapid wilting, yellowing, browning edges, dulling of the vibrant green color, diminished aroma, slight sliminess.
How to Check
Look for limp, dull, or slightly browned leaves. The scent will be much weaker than fresh, vibrant mint. A touch test will reveal very soft, non-crisp leaves. If any moisture has collected in the bag, it can accelerate spoilage.
Storage Tips
Original plastic clamshells or bags often trap too much moisture (leading to rot) or not enough (leading to drying out), causing quicker spoilage. Transferring to a better storage method (as described above) is highly recommended upon bringing home.