All About Mixed greens
Your complete guide to mixed greens - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Mixed greens Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for mixed greens 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.
Washed & Prepped in Refrigerator3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Limp, wilted, or soggy leaves, browning or yellowing edges, slimy texture, or a sour, unpleasant smell. Mold can also develop if not dried properly.
How to Check
Visually inspect the greens for any signs of discoloration or mold. Touch the leaves; they should feel crisp or slightly yielding, not slimy or mushy. Smell for any off-odors. If only slightly wilted, they might still be suitable for cooking (e.g., sautéing), but not ideal for salads.
Storage Tips
Thoroughly wash the greens under cold running water. The most critical step is to dry them completely using a salad spinner or by patting them dry with paper towels. Any residual moisture will significantly accelerate spoilage. Store the thoroughly dried greens in an airtight container lined with a dry paper towel, or in a large zip-top bag with some air removed and a paper towel inside. Replace the paper towel every day or two if it becomes damp.
Unopened in Refrigerator5-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive moisture accumulation inside the packaging, wilting or limp leaves, yellowing or browning of leaves, dark spots, a slimy texture starting to develop, or a strong, unpleasant odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect the bag/container for excessive condensation, discoloration, or any signs of mold. Gently feel the contents through the packaging for sliminess. A sour, musty, or strong 'rotting vegetable' smell is a definitive sign of spoilage.
Storage Tips
Keep the original packaging sealed until ready to use. Store in the crisper drawer, which helps maintain optimal humidity. Avoid placing heavy items on top that could crush the delicate leaves.
Opened in Refrigerator3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Similar to unopened, but spoilage may accelerate due to air exposure. Look for significant wilting, sliminess, discoloration (yellow, brown, or black spots), or a strong, off-putting odor. Mold growth may also appear.
How to Check
Open the package and visually inspect the leaves directly. Pick up a few leaves; if they feel mushy, slimy, or excessively limp, they are spoiled. A strong, sour, or putrid smell is the most reliable indicator. If only a few leaves are affected, you might be able to pick them out, but if a significant portion is bad, discard the whole batch.
Storage Tips
Once opened, try to use the greens within a few days. To extend freshness, transfer the remaining greens to an airtight container lined with a dry paper towel. Place another dry paper towel on top before sealing. This helps absorb excess moisture, which is the enemy of fresh greens. Change the paper towels if they become damp.