produce
How Long Does Romaine Lettuce Last?
Romaine Lettuce lasts 7–10 days in the fridge (whole head, unwashed). Wrap the whole head in a slightly damp paper towel, then in a loose plastic bag — the moisture keeps leaves crisp without causing rot.
Fridge
7–10 days
whole head, unwashed
Counter
2–4 hours
maximum before wilting
Freezer
1–2 months
texture destroyed, for smoothies only
Once opened/cut
3–5 days
cut or chopped, in fridge
Storage Tips
- Wrap the whole head in a slightly damp paper towel, then in a loose plastic bag — the moisture keeps leaves crisp without causing rot.
- Do not wash until just before use; excess moisture dramatically speeds up browning and decay.
- Keep romaine away from apples, bananas, and tomatoes in the fridge drawer — ethylene from those fruits causes brown spots within days.
Ethylene gas — store carefully
Romaine Lettuce is sensitive to ethylene gas. Keep away from high-producers like avocados, bananas, apples, and tomatoes to slow premature aging.
How to Tell If Romaine Lettuce Has Gone Bad
Signs to look for
- Slimy or wet outer leaves with a strong unpleasant smell.
- Pink or rust-brown discoloration spreading from the cut edges inward.
- Soft, translucent leaves that have lost all structure and collapse when handled.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you revive wilted romaine?
Trim the base and submerge leaves in ice water for 15–30 minutes. Crisp cell walls re-inflate as they absorb water. Dry completely before storing or dressing.
Should you wash romaine before refrigerating?
No — wash only immediately before use. Water left on leaves creates the perfect environment for bacterial growth and accelerates browning. Pre-washed store bags are an exception as they are treated and dried.
Is the darker outer romaine leaf more nutritious?
Yes — the dark green outer leaves contain significantly more vitamin K, folate, and beta-carotene than the pale inner heart. Save the hearts for texture and use outer leaves in cooked dishes.
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