Grapes are a satisfying snack, but it's hard to know how long they will last. Read on to learn how long they can last in the fridge, how to keep grapes fresh, and what to do to keep them longer.
If you’re wondering how long your freshly bought grapes will last, you’re not alone. Grapes can be tricky to know when they’re fresh, how long they last in the fridge versus on the counter, what makes them go bad, and if it’s okay to freeze them. Let’s take a closer look at how to keep grapes fresh.
How to Keep Grapes Fresh: Fridge vs. Countertop
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Refrigerated Grapes
If you plan to store your grapes in the fridge, they can last up to three weeks – provided you put them near the back (the coldest part of the fridge). Grapes are said to thrive at temperatures of 30-32 degrees Fahrenheit which is why they last longer near the back of the fridge.
Use the following tips to keep grapes fresh in the fridge:
- don’t wash them – although grapes are often grown with chemical pesticides and it might be instinct to want to immediately wash these away, but excess water can start to break down the grapes. Instead, wash them before each use.
- skip the lid – lids or airtight containers will speed up the decaying process for grapes because grapes need ventilation in order to last. Instead of swapping the container they came in for a tupperware, let them breathe.
- separate your grapes – since grapes need room to breathe, it is also wise to separate the grape bunches to ensure appropriate air circulation in the fridge. This also helps to find hidden grapes that are starting to turn, and makes it easier to compost those that are.
- keep the stems – once removed from their stems, grapes will start to decay so keep the stems intact for longer laster grapes.
Note: Grapes are often odor-trappers, so be mindful of what foods in the fridge you are placing nearby. They will likely take on some of the odors of these neighboring foods which could also decay them faster. Be mindful of mold and check your grapes often before eating.
Grapes on the Counter
It’s harder to keep grapes fresh on the counter, as they will only last up to three days at room temperature. However, bacteria and mold can start to grow making them unsafe after one day. One single moldy grape can more quickly deteriorate the rest of the bunch. Instead, follow the above notes on refrigerated grapes and keep your grapes healthy for longer.
Can You Freeze Grapes?
(Foto: CC0 / Unsplash / Nati Melnychuk)
The short answer is yes. Grapes can be frozen safely for up to five months if stored in an airtight container. Freezing is another method to help keep grapes fresh as it should stop the accumulation of bacteria and mold. They also make great additions to wine, frozen drinks, smoothies, and nutritious snacks for kids.
The best way to freeze grapes is by removing them from the stem, washing them, and placing in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once the grapes have frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Picking Healthy Grapes
Knowing what healthy grapes look like is the best way to keep grapes fresh, regardless of if you freeze, refrigerate, or store them on the counter. Here are some tips on picking the best grapes:
- Check for plumpness – healthy grapes are round and plump. If you see one that is shriveled, or discolored, discard that bunch and look for a healthier one.
- Check the stems – to see if the stems are connected to the grapes or are starting to pull away. If they are, the grapes are less healthy and should not be eaten.
- Check the color – in addition to the correct hue (red grapes should be purple, black should be blueish, and green should be yellow) grapes may also have a slight waxy film that is white on the outside. This is called “bloom” and is a natural wax coating on the grape that means they are healthy.
Read more:
- How to Store Apples: Easy Ways to Keep Them Fresh
- Storing Potatoes: 8 Tips to Keep Them Fresh for Months
- The 9 Best Plastic Wrap Alternatives
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