The Best Guide to Keep Peaches Fresh
Peaches are a juicy, sweet summertime favorite, but their delicate skin makes them prone to bruising and spoilage. Knowing how long peaches last—and how to store them—helps preserve their flavor and texture, ensuring you enjoy every bite.
Shelf Life of Peaches
- At Room Temperature (Whole, Unripe):
- Unripe Peaches: 2-3 days (until ripe)
- Ripe Peaches: 1-2 days
- In the Refrigerator:
- Whole, Ripe Peaches: 5-7 days
- Cut Peaches (in an airtight container): 2-3 days
- In the Freezer:
- Peach Slices or Halves (blanched and frozen): 8-12 months
Best Practices for Storing Peaches
- Ripen at Room Temperature – Leave unripe peaches on the counter until they soften slightly and become fragrant.
- Refrigerate Ripe Peaches – Once ripe, transfer peaches to the refrigerator to slow further ripening and extend shelf life.
- Store Cut Peaches Properly – Place sliced peaches in an airtight container, and sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Freeze for Long-Term Use – Blanch, peel, and slice peaches before freezing to preserve their texture and flavor.
- Avoid Stacking Peaches – Store peaches in a single layer to prevent bruising and spoilage.
Signs Peaches Are Going Bad
- Soft, Mushy Spots – Overripe or bruised peaches spoil quickly.
- Wrinkled Skin – A sign of dehydration and aging.
- Off Smell – A sour or fermented odor signals spoilage.
- Mold or Dark Spots – Visible mold or discoloration means the peach is past its prime.
How to Use Overripe Peaches
- Peach Smoothies
- Homemade Peach Jam or Preserves
- Baking (peach cobbler, pies, crisps)
- Fruit Salads or Yogurt Toppings
- Peach Sorbet or Ice Cream
By following these tips, you can extend the shelf life of peaches and reduce food waste. Whether you enjoy them fresh, in desserts, or frozen for later, proper storage ensures peaches stay juicy and delicious.