All About Pineapple juice
Your complete guide to pineapple juice - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Pineapple juice Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for pineapple 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.
unopened, shelf-stable (canned/cartoned)6-12 months past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking can/carton, rust on can, significant dents, off-odor (sour, metallic, fermented) if opened, mold (extremely rare in unopened, shelf-stable if seal is intact).
How to Check
Always check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date. Visually inspect the packaging for any damage (bulging, leaks, rust, deep dents). If opened, immediately perform a smell test; any sour, alcoholic, or off-odor indicates spoilage. Do not taste if any of these signs are present.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry, dark place (like a pantry or cabinet) away from direct sunlight or heat sources. While often safe past the 'best by' date, quality (flavor, vitamin content) may degrade over time.
unopened, refrigerated (fresh/cold-pressed)3-7 days or until 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Significant cloudiness or darkening of color, sour or fermented smell, visible mold growth, separation beyond typical juice pulp.
How to Check
Check the 'best by' date. Visually inspect for clarity and color; fresh juice should be bright. Perform a smell test; it should smell fresh and sweet, not sour, alcoholic, or vinegary. Look for any visible mold, especially around the cap or surface.
Storage Tips
Keep in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Do not consume if the 'best by' date has passed or any spoilage signs are present.
opened, refrigerated (all types)5-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Strongly fermented or sour smell (like alcohol or vinegar), visible mold growth on the surface or around the rim, cloudy or murky appearance, fizzy texture (indicating fermentation).
How to Check
The smell test is key: sniff for any off-odors, especially sourness or an alcoholic/vinegary scent. Visually inspect for mold, cloudiness, or any unusual particles. Pour a small amount into a clear glass to check for fizziness or excessive cloudiness. Discard immediately if any of these signs are detected.
Storage Tips
For best freshness, transfer opened juice from a can to an airtight, non-reactive container (glass or food-grade plastic) to prevent metallic flavors and extend shelf life. Always reseal tightly after each use. Store in the main body of the refrigerator, not the door, for more consistent temperature.
frozen6-12 months (for best quality)
Signs of Spoilage
While technically safe indefinitely if kept frozen, quality degrades over time. Signs include significant freezer burn (large ice crystals, dried-out appearance), muted flavor, or a less vibrant color after thawing.
How to Check
Inspect for excessive freezer burn. After thawing, perform a smell test; it should still smell like pineapple. Taste a small amount for quality; if flavor is significantly off or unpleasant, it's best to discard, though it's likely still safe.
Storage Tips
Freeze pineapple juice in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Freezing in ice cube trays is a great way to portion it for smoothies or recipes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or using the defrost setting on a microwave. Do not refreeze thawed juice.