The Ultimate Guide to Keep Kiwis Fresh
Kiwis are a nutrient-dense, sweet, and tangy fruit, but they can spoil quickly without proper storage. Knowing how long kiwis last—and the best methods to store them—ensures you enjoy their vibrant flavor and reduce waste.
Shelf Life of Kiwis
- At Room Temperature (Whole, Unripe):
- Unripe Kiwis: 4-6 days (until ripe)
- Ripe Kiwis: 1-2 days
- In the Refrigerator:
- Whole, Ripe Kiwis: 5-7 days
- Cut Kiwis (in an airtight container): 2-3 days
- In the Freezer:
- Sliced or Pureed Kiwi (in freezer bags): 8-12 months
Best Practices for Storing Kiwis
- Ripen at Room Temperature – Leave unripe kiwis on the counter until they soften. To speed up ripening, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple.
- Refrigerate Ripe Kiwis – Store ripe kiwis in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life by up to a week.
- Store Cut Kiwis Properly – Place sliced or peeled kiwis in an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Freeze for Long-Term Use – Peel and slice kiwis, then freeze them individually before transferring to freezer bags.
- Avoid Moisture – Keep kiwis dry to prevent mold and extend freshness.
Signs Kiwis Are Going Bad
- Soft or Mushy Texture – Overripe kiwis will become very soft and may leak juice.
- Wrinkled Skin – A sign the kiwi is starting to dry out.
- Sour or Fermented Smell – Indicates the fruit is spoiled.
- Mold or Discoloration – Any mold or dark spots mean the kiwi should be discarded.
How to Use Overripe Kiwis
- Kiwi Smoothies
- Homemade Kiwi Sorbet
- Fruit Salads
- Kiwi Jam or Chutney
- Infused Water or Cocktails
By following these simple storage tips, you can extend the shelf life of kiwis and enjoy their tropical sweetness longer. Whether you refrigerate or freeze them, proper storage ensures your kiwis stay fresh and delicious.