produce
How Long Does Carrot Last?
Carrot lasts 3–5 weeks in the fridge (whole, tops removed). Remove carrot tops before storing — the leafy greens draw moisture and nutrients from the root, reducing storage life by up to half.
Fridge
3–5 weeks
whole, tops removed
Counter
3–5 days
cool, shaded spot
Freezer
10–12 months
blanched
Once opened/cut
2–3 weeks
peeled, in fridge
Storage Tips
- Remove carrot tops before storing — the leafy greens draw moisture and nutrients from the root, reducing storage life by up to half.
- Store in a container of cold water in the fridge for maximum crispness; change the water every 4–5 days.
- Keep away from apples, pears, and other ethylene producers in the crisper — carrots absorb ethylene, which causes bitterness.
Ethylene gas — store carefully
Carrot is sensitive to ethylene gas. Keep away from high-producers like avocados, bananas, apples, and tomatoes to slow premature aging.
How to Tell If Carrot Has Gone Bad
Signs to look for
- Slimy or wet surface, particularly noticeable in bags of baby carrots.
- White fuzzy mold on the surface — different from the harmless white "blush" dehydration on baby carrots.
- Very soft, floppy texture throughout (slightly limp carrots are fine and can be revived in cold water; completely mushy is spoilage).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you revive limp carrots?
Submerge in ice water for 30–60 minutes. The carrot cells absorb water and regain turgor pressure, restoring crispness. This works well for slightly dehydrated carrots but not for fully soft or slimy ones.
Should baby carrots be stored in water?
Yes — submerging baby carrots in cold water in a sealed container in the fridge prevents the blush dehydration and keeps them crisp for 2–3 weeks. Change the water every 4–5 days.
Can you freeze raw carrots without blanching?
Technically yes, but blanching first (2–3 minutes boiling, then ice bath) deactivates enzymes that cause flavor deterioration and color loss in the freezer. Unblanched carrots become mushy and lose color faster over time.
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