How long pomegranates last on the counter, in the fridge, and frozen
Quick answer
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Room temperature
Keeps for 2-5 days
Keep a pomegranate at room temperature for 2 to 5 days from the day you buy it.
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Fridge
Keeps for 1-3 months
Refrigerate pomegranates at 40°F (4°C) or below, where they last 1 to 3 months from the date of purchase.
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Freezer
Keeps for 10-12 months
Freeze pomegranate, and it keeps for 10 to 12 months.
A pomegranate lasts 1 to 3 months in the fridge but only 2 to 5 days at room temperature. Both times count from the day you buy it. It keeps 10 to 12 months in the freezer. Throw away a pomegranate that looks rotten, and cut away bruised or damaged spots before you eat the rest.
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A pomegranate lasts 1 to 3 months in the refrigerator, but only 2 to 5 days at room temperature, according to USDA FoodKeeper. Both times count from the day you buy it.
That makes the fridge the place for any pomegranate you won’t eat in the next few days. For longer storage, pomegranate keeps 10 to 12 months in the freezer.
How to store pomegranate
Store pomegranates in a clean refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, the FDA’s advice for perishable fresh fruits. On the counter, a pomegranate keeps only 2 to 5 days from the date of purchase.
At the store, choose a pomegranate that isn’t bruised or damaged. The FDA gives that advice for all fresh produce.
How to store pomegranate seeds you buy
Refrigerate pomegranate seeds you buy packaged, as the FDA advises for all produce bought pre-cut or packaged. At the store, pick packs that are refrigerated or surrounded by ice. The USDA FoodKeeper times on this page are for the pomegranate itself.
How long does a pomegranate last?
A pomegranate lasts 1 to 3 months in the fridge, 2 to 5 days at room temperature, and 10 to 12 months in the freezer. The fridge and room times count from the date of purchase.
| Where | How long |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | 2 to 5 days from purchase |
| Fridge | 1 to 3 months from purchase |
| Freezer | 10 to 12 months |
How long does pomegranate last in the fridge?
A pomegranate lasts 1 to 3 months in the fridge, counted from the date of purchase, according to USDA FoodKeeper. That’s far longer than the 2 to 5 days it keeps on the counter.
Can you freeze pomegranate?
Yes, pomegranate keeps 10 to 12 months in the freezer, according to USDA FoodKeeper. That’s the longest of its three storage times.
How to tell if a pomegranate is bad
A pomegranate that looks rotten has gone bad, so throw it away, the FDA advises. If it’s only bruised or damaged in spots, cut those areas away before you prepare or eat it.
How to wash a pomegranate
Wash a pomegranate under running water before you cut it, even though you won’t eat the peel. That keeps dirt and bacteria on the surface from being carried along by the knife.
Gently rub it under plain running water, with no soap or produce wash, as the FDA’s tips for cleaning fruits and vegetables advise. Then dry it with a clean cloth or paper towel to reduce bacteria further.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a pomegranate last on the counter?
A pomegranate lasts 2 to 5 days at room temperature, counted from the day you buy it.
Should you refrigerate pomegranates?
Yes, if you won't eat them within 2 to 5 days. A pomegranate lasts 1 to 3 months in the fridge but only 2 to 5 days at room temperature.
What temperature should the fridge be for pomegranates?
Keep the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below, the FDA's advice for perishable fresh fruits and vegetables.
Do you need soap to wash a pomegranate?
No, there's no need for soap or produce wash. Produce is porous and can absorb them, the FDA explains.
Does washing a pomegranate remove all bacteria?
No, washing reduces bacteria but doesn't eliminate them. Drying the pomegranate with a clean cloth or paper towel reduces them further.
