All About Pomegranate seeds
Your complete guide to pomegranate seeds - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Pomegranate seeds Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for pomegranate seeds 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, unopened package in fridge5-7 days (or until 'best by' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Dull, brownish color; soft or mushy texture; fermented, sour, or 'off' smell; visible mold (white, green, or black fuzz).
How to Check
Visual: Check for vibrant, uniform red color. Dullness or discoloration is a bad sign. Smell: Sniff for a fresh, slightly tart aroma. Any sour, alcoholic, or unpleasant odor indicates spoilage. Touch: Seeds should feel firm and plump through the packaging. If they feel overly soft or watery, they may be bad.
Storage Tips
Always check the 'best by' or 'use by' date on the package. Keep refrigerated at all times. Do not wash until just before use to prevent premature spoilage from moisture.
fresh, opened package or loose in fridge3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Loss of bright red color, becoming dull or brownish; soft, mushy, or slimy texture; clumping together; sour, fermented, or 'off' smell; visible mold.
How to Check
Visual: Look for vibrant red, distinct seeds. Discoloration, dullness, or any fuzzy mold growth (white, green, black) means they're spoiled. Touch: Seeds should be firm and separate. If they feel soft, mushy, or sticky/slimy, discard them. Smell: A fresh, slightly tart, fruity scent is good. A sour, alcoholic, or unpleasant odor is a clear sign of spoilage.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container to minimize air exposure and prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors. Avoid washing until just before use. If you've deseeded a whole pomegranate, ensure the seeds are completely dry before storing in the container.
frozen6-12 months (for best quality); safe indefinitely if kept at 0°F (-18°C)
Signs of Spoilage
While technically safe indefinitely if kept frozen, quality can degrade. Signs include: freezer burn (dry, shriveled appearance), dull or faded color, significant loss of flavor or watery texture after thawing.
How to Check
Visual: Check for excessive ice crystals, discoloration, or shriveling (freezer burn). Smell/Taste (after thawing): If they have a bland, off, or excessively watery taste/texture, the quality has degraded. They should still have a hint of their characteristic tartness.
Storage Tips
To freeze fresh seeds at home: Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (flash freeze). Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This method prevents them from clumping together. Frozen seeds can be used directly in smoothies or oatmeal. For other uses, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.