Kale keeps 3 to 5 days in the fridge and 8 to 12 months frozen
Quick answer
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Fridge
Keeps for 3-5 days
Keep kale in a clean refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, counted from the day you bought it.
Watch out Throw away kale that looks rotten.
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Freezer
Keeps for 8-12 months
Blanch or partially cook kale in boiling water or in a microwave oven, chill it rapidly, then freeze it.
Kale lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 8 to 12 months in the freezer, counted from the day you bought it. Keep it in a clean refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Blanch it before you freeze it, since the USDA says most vegetables that freeze well need brief, partial cooking first. Throw away kale that looks rotten.
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Kale lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 8 to 12 months in the freezer, according to USDA FoodKeeper. Both times count from the day you bought it.
Store kale in a clean refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, and blanch it before you freeze it. Swiss chard and other greens have their own FoodKeeper times, covered below.
How long does kale last?
Kale lasts 3 to 5 days in the fridge and 8 to 12 months in the freezer. FoodKeeper counts both from the day you bought it.
| Place | How long |
|---|---|
| Fridge | 3 to 5 days |
| Freezer | 8 to 12 months |
How long does Swiss chard last?
Swiss chard lasts 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge, counted from the day you bought it. FoodKeeper’s tip is to keep it in a plastic bag to retain moisture.
How long do other greens last?
FoodKeeper’s general greens line gives 1 to 4 days in the fridge and 10 to 12 months in the freezer. Kale has its own line, so use the kale times above for kale.
How to store kale
To keep kale fresh, store it in a clean refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. The FDA advises that temperature for perishable fresh produce such as lettuce and herbs.
When you shop, choose kale that isn’t bruised or damaged. If you buy it pre-cut, bagged, or packaged, pick only items that are refrigerated or surrounded by ice, and refrigerate it after you buy it.
How long does kale last in the fridge?
Kale lasts 3 to 5 days in the fridge, counted from the day you bought it. If you won’t use it in that time, freeze it.
Can you freeze kale?
Yes, kale keeps 8 to 12 months in the freezer, according to FoodKeeper. Blanch it first, because the USDA says most vegetables that freeze well are low acid and need brief, partial cooking before freezing to prevent deterioration.
You can read the full advice in the USDA’s guide to freezing and food safety.
How to freeze kale
Blanch fresh kale before you freeze it, and chill it rapidly after blanching.
- Wash the kale under plain running water.
- Blanch or partially cook it in boiling water or in a microwave oven.
- Chill it rapidly.
- Put it in the freezer.
How to blanch kale for freezing
To blanch kale, cook it partway in boiling water or in a microwave oven, then chill it rapidly before freezing.
This brief, partial cooking is what the USDA recommends for most vegetables that freeze well. It prevents deterioration.
How to tell if kale is bad
Throw kale away if it looks rotten, as the FDA advises for all produce.
If only part of the kale is bruised or damaged, cut those areas away before you prepare or eat it.
How to wash kale
Wash kale thoroughly under plain running water before you prepare or eat it, and rub it gently. The FDA says there’s no need for soap or a produce wash, because produce is porous and can absorb them.
Dry it with a clean cloth or paper towel to reduce bacteria further. Washing reduces bacteria but doesn’t eliminate them, as the FDA explains in its tips for cleaning fruits and vegetables.
Frequently asked questions
Can you freeze kale raw?
The USDA's advice is to blanch most vegetables that freeze well before freezing them, so blanch kale instead of freezing it raw. Blanching is brief, partial cooking that prevents deterioration.
How long does frozen kale last?
FoodKeeper gives kale 8 to 12 months in the freezer, counted from the day you bought it.
Does Swiss chard last longer than kale?
In the fridge, yes. FoodKeeper gives Swiss chard 1 to 2 weeks and kale 3 to 5 days.
Can you eat kale with a bruised spot?
Yes, after you cut the bruised or damaged area away. Throw the kale away if it looks rotten.
Should you use soap to wash kale?
No. Use plain running water, because produce is porous and can absorb soap, detergent, and commercial produce wash.
