produce
How Long Does Spinach Last?
Spinach lasts 5–7 days in the fridge (loose, unwashed). Line the storage container or bag with a dry paper towel — it absorbs excess moisture that would otherwise cause slime.
Fridge
5–7 days
loose, unwashed
Counter
1–3 hours
wilts rapidly at room temperature
Freezer
10–12 months
blanched and squeezed dry
Once opened/cut
2–3 days
opened bag
Storage Tips
- Line the storage container or bag with a dry paper towel — it absorbs excess moisture that would otherwise cause slime.
- Blanch and freeze excess spinach: 2 minutes in boiling water, shock in ice water, squeeze completely dry, freeze in tablespoon-sized portions.
- Keep spinach in the crisper drawer away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples to prevent premature yellowing.
Ethylene gas — store carefully
Spinach is sensitive to ethylene gas. Keep away from high-producers like avocados, bananas, apples, and tomatoes to slow premature aging.
How to Tell If Spinach Has Gone Bad
Signs to look for
- Slimy or wet texture — the first and most obvious sign; even one slimy leaf can contaminate the rest.
- Yellow or brownish leaves, particularly at the edges, indicating breakdown of chlorophyll.
- Unpleasant musty or sour smell instead of the mild, clean green scent of fresh spinach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze fresh spinach without blanching?
Yes, but it will be very watery and mushy when thawed — fine for soups, smoothies, and cooked dishes. For cooked dishes where texture matters, blanching first produces a much better result.
Is spinach with yellow leaves safe to eat?
Yellow leaves are not dangerous, but indicate the spinach is old and has lost much of its nutritional value. If the yellowing is accompanied by sliminess or bad odor, discard the whole batch.
Why does spinach shrink so much when cooked?
Spinach is about 91% water by weight. Heat collapses the cell walls and releases that moisture, reducing a full pound of raw spinach to about one cup cooked. Always start with more than you think you need.
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