Does Lime Juice Go Bad?

Lime juice can be used in many different ways, from marinating meat or fish, to flavoring drinks like cocktails and margaritas. But does lime juice go bad?

A quick dash in a cocktail adds a lively kick, or use lime juice to make marinades and salad dressings. They're versatile, and they're delicious! Read more about how to make your lime juice last longer.

Jump to:

• ❔ How Long Does Lime Juice Last?
• 😋 How Long Does Fresh Lime Juice Last?
• ✅ How To Tell If Your Lime Juice Goes Bad?
• ❄️ How To Properly Store Lime Juice?
• 🩺 Health Benefits of Lime
• 🗓️ Is Lime Juice Safe to Use After the "Expiration" Date on the Bottle?
• ⚠️ Can You Get Sick From Expired Lime Juice?
• 👩🏻‍🍳 Lime Juice Recipes You'll Love 
• 💬 Reviews and Comments

Lime juice doesn't go bad quickly — but the flavor and aroma deteriorate over time. The acidic nature of this fruit, thanks to citric acid, means it has a built-in natural preservative.

But how long does citrus juice last? Is it safe to use after the expiration date? And what about storing lime juice: is there anything special you should do with it? Can you freeze the juice so that it lasts longer?

Let's find out more about the shelf life of lime juice and when it should be thrown away. These tips are applicable for fresh juice as well as store-bought lime juice.

❔ How Long Does Lime Juice Last?

It is possible for lime juice to last months beyond its printed expiration date. Lime juice can be stored in the pantry for up to 3-6 months past its best-by date if it is left unopened.

However, the flavor will start to deteriorate after this amount of time, so be sure to use it within that time frame for the best results.

The juice's acidity helps preserve and keeps it from spoiling as quickly as other juices. Unopened lime juice should be kept in the pantry or another cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. It stays fresh for several weeks in the refrigerator once opened.

The shelf life of lime juice depends on a variety of factors. For example, you can expect the shelf life of lime juice to be different depending on whether or not it's been opened, how long you've had it and how you store it.

😋 How Long Does Fresh Lime Juice Last?

Usually, fresh lime juice is good for up to 3-5 days if kept in the refrigerator and not exposed to elevated temperatures and light. But of course, it is best to use the lime juice as soon as possible to enjoy the freshest flavor. To ensure that your lime juice tastes fresh, store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator.

✅ How To Tell If Your Lime Juice Goes Bad?

If you're wondering whether or not lime juice goes bad after being opened, the answer is yes—but only if it isn't stored correctly or kept at unsafe temperatures for an extended period.

If you see the lime juice turning brown, you can still use it if you plan on using it for cooking or in specific recipes. It is usually because it has been exposed to air and light, but it will be safe to use.

You're not alone if you're wondering how to tell if your lime juice goes bad.

Here are some signs that your lime juice has gone bad:

• If you notice anything off about the smell or taste of your lime juice, throw it out immediately. If the lime juice smells rancid, it's time for a new bottle!
• Tasting your lime juice can also tell if it has gone bad. If the taste is off—if it is bitter or sour and doesn't taste like lime—then the juice may not be safe to drink anymore.
• You may see mold or other strange things growing on or floating in your juice. This is typically a strong indication that it's passed its prime.

📌 Lime is a distinct and tangy fruit that produces a versatile juice that can be used in anything from grilling meats to citrusy desserts. But does lime juice go bad? Check out these tips on how to keep your lime juice as fresh as possible!

❄️ How To Properly Store Lime Juice?

Lime juice stored correctly remains free of bacterial growth, and its quality remains stable for a more extended period. Keep lime juice in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent spoilage.

You can store it in the pantry if not opened, or your refrigerator's door if you have an opened bottle of lime juice.

In the Pantry

Lime juice can be stored in the pantry for up to 3-6 months past its best-by date without being opened. Ensure it's away from direct sunlight or heat sources that might affect its freshness. This only really applies to your typical store-bought bottle of lime juice.

In the Refrigerator

Lime juice can be kept in a sealed container the refrigerator for up to the printed date after opening. If you're planning on using it within this time frame, it's best not to open and close the bottle multiple times. Instead, pour out just what you need and seal it back up tightly.

In the Freezer

If you don't finish the whole bottle at once or want to store it to use later, pour the remaining lime juice into an ice cube tray and freeze for a long time! You can then use these cubes whenever needed without worrying about spoilage issues.

🩺 Health Benefits of Lime

Like many other citrus fruits, limes are a great source of various vitamins and minerals. This tangy green fruit is chock full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C.

Limes can even prevent heart disease, relieve congestion or nausea, and can also aid in weight loss. Sounds like a great excuse to whip up a batch of margaritas to me!

Adding lime juice to your water is a great and tasty way to increase hydration and boost your immune system as well.

🗓️ Is Lime Juice Safe to Use After the "Expiration" Date on the Bottle?

It depends on several factors: when the product was packaged, how it was stored and the conditions it was kept in, how long it was stored before opening, how long it was held after it was opened, and how the opened bottle was stored.

An expiry date is usually just a suggestion for peak freshness, and you can be the judge of whether or not the food inside the package is still good. Just be sure to check for signs of spoilage.

It does not mean that the product is unsafe to use after the expiration date, just that it may not taste as fresh or flavorful as before. If the bottle is stored correctly and undamaged, then lime juice is safe to use even after expiration.

⚠️ Can You Get Sick From Expired Lime Juice?

There's the possibility that expired lime juice could be contaminated with harmful bacteria if not stored properly. These bacteria can cause food poisoning. If you notice spoilage in your expired lime juice (such as mold growth or an off smell), it's time to throw it out.

💭 Final Thoughts On The Shelf Life Of Lime Juice

Lime juice has a long shelf life if stored properly (in glass bottles or containers with tight-fitting lids). If uncapped and exposed to air for an extended period at room temperature (or higher)—it can spoil quickly.

In addition, if the lime juice is stored in a hot place, such as in direct sunlight or on the kitchen counter, it will lose its freshness. The best way to store it is out of hot and bright environments.

Many of these tips can also be applied to things like fresh lemon juice, orange juice, and other fruit juices.