Does Lemon Juice Go Bad? Shelf Life, Spoilage Signs, and Storage Tips

Lemon juice is a kitchen essential, used for everything from cooking and baking to cleaning and skincare. But how long does it actually last before going bad? Many assume its acidity makes it immune to spoilage, but that’s far from the truth.

If you’ve ever pulled a bottle of lemon juice from the fridge and wondered, “Is this still good?”, you’re not alone. Whether you’re using fresh lemons or bottled juice, knowing the shelf life, spoilage signs, and proper storage methods can save you from ruined recipes—or worse, an upset stomach.

Let’s break down everything you need to know.

Can Lemon Juice Go Bad? Here’s the Truth

Yes, lemon juice can go bad, just like any other perishable food. Its high acidity does slow down bacterial growth, but it doesn’t stop oxidation or mold from forming. Over time, lemon juice loses its tangy freshness and can even develop harmful microorganisms.

Here’s what determines how fast it spoils:

• Fresh vs. bottled juice – Freshly squeezed juice spoils much faster than store-bought varieties because it lacks preservatives.
• Storage conditions – Exposure to air, heat, and light speeds up spoilage, while refrigeration slows it down.
• Preservatives – Commercially bottled lemon juice contains additives that extend its shelf life significantly.

If you’ve ever noticed a darkened color, off smell, or unusual taste, that’s a sign your lemon juice has started to degrade.

How Long Does Lemon Juice Last? Shelf Life Explained

The shelf life of lemon juice depends on how it’s stored and whether it’s fresh or commercially processed.

How Long Different Types of Lemon Juice Last:

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice – Lasts 2–3 days in the fridge and up to 6 months in the freezer.
• Store-bought bottled lemon juice (opened) – Stays fresh for 6–12 months in the fridge.
• Store-bought bottled lemon juice (unopened) – Can last 12–18 months when stored in a cool, dark pantry.

Bottled lemon juice contains preservatives like sodium benzoate or sulfites, which prevent bacterial growth. However, once opened, it must be refrigerated to stay fresh.

If your lemon juice has been sitting in the fridge for a while, don’t assume it’s still good—check for spoilage signs first.

Signs Lemon Juice Has Spoiled: How to Tell If It’s Bad

Spoiled lemon juice is easy to spot if you know what to look for. Even if it looks fine at first glance, small changes in color, smell, and taste indicate it’s no longer safe to use.

How to Tell If Lemon Juice Has Gone Bad:

✔️ Smell Test – Fresh lemon juice has a bright, citrusy scent. If it smells sour, musty, or slightly fermented, it’s gone bad.

✔️ Color Change – Lemon juice is naturally pale yellow. If it darkens, turns cloudy, or develops white streaks, it’s no longer fresh.

✔️ Mold Growth – Visible mold, floating particles, or buildup around the bottle’s rim is a clear sign of spoilage.

✔️ Taste Check – If it tastes bitter, overly sour, or just “off,” don’t use it. Spoiled lemon juice won’t enhance food—it will ruin it.

⚠️ Warning: Drinking spoiled lemon juice won’t necessarily make you sick, but it can cause stomach discomfort and an unpleasant taste. Always check before using!

Does Lemon Juice Need to Be Refrigerated? Best Storage Practices

Yes! Lemon juice should always be refrigerated after opening—even store-bought varieties. Leaving it at room temperature allows bacteria and mold to grow quickly.

Best Ways to Store Lemon Juice:

✅ Fresh lemon juice: Keep it in a sealed glass or BPA-free plastic container in the fridge.
✅ Bottled lemon juice: Once opened, store it tightly sealed in the fridge.
✅ Avoid metal containers: Lemon juice reacts with metal, which can alter its taste and safety.

How long does lemon juice last in the fridge?

• Fresh juice: 2–3 days
• Bottled juice: 6–12 months after opening

Leaving lemon juice out for too long reduces its freshness and increases the risk of spoilage. Always refrigerate to maintain quality.

Freezing Lemon Juice: Does It Extend Shelf Life?

If you want to keep lemon juice fresh for months, freezing is the best option. It preserves the flavor, color, and nutritional value without the need for preservatives.

How to Freeze Lemon Juice Properly:

• Use ice cube trays – Pour fresh lemon juice into ice cube trays for easy portioning.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags – Once frozen, store cubes in an airtight bag to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date – Lemon juice stays fresh in the freezer for 4–6 months.

Frozen lemon juice works perfectly in cooking, baking, and beverages—just pop a cube into your dish or glass of water.

Does Expired Lemon Juice Still Work for Cleaning or Cooking?

Just because lemon juice is past its prime doesn’t mean it’s completely useless! While it’s not safe for drinking or cooking, it can still serve other purposes.

✔️ Cleaning: The natural acidity makes it effective for removing stains, cutting grease, and freshening up surfaces.
✔️ Deodorizing: A small bowl of lemon juice can neutralize bad odors in the fridge.
✔️ Beauty Uses: Some people use diluted lemon juice for hair lightening or skincare.

⚠️ However, if the juice has mold or smells rotten, discard it immediately.

How to Keep Lemon Juice Fresh for Longer

Want to extend the shelf life of your lemon juice? A few simple storage tricks can make a big difference.

Best Practices to Keep Lemon Juice Fresh:

✔️ Store in an airtight container – Prevents oxidation and contamination.
✔️ Keep it refrigerated – Always store fresh and opened bottled juice in the fridge.
✔️ Freeze excess juice – Freezing in small portions keeps it fresh for months.
✔️ Use clean utensils – Avoid dipping dirty spoons into lemon juice to prevent bacteria from spreading.

Following these tips ensures your lemon juice stays fresh, flavorful, and safe to use.

Key Takeaways: How to Make Your Lemon Juice Last

• Lemon juice does go bad, but proper storage can extend its shelf life.
• Fresh juice lasts 2–3 days in the fridge, while bottled juice stays fresh for up to a year after opening.
• Spoilage signs include a sour smell, color changes, mold, and an off taste.
• Always refrigerate lemon juice after opening to maintain freshness.
• Freezing is the best way to extend its shelf life for up to 6 months.
• Expired lemon juice can still be useful for cleaning but should not be consumed if it smells or tastes bad.

Want your lemon juice to last longer? Store it properly, freeze extra portions, and always check for spoilage before using!