Lemon juice is a great ingredient to have in your home. It has many uses, from cleaning to cooking. However, like other acidic foods and beverages, lemon juice can go bad over time.
Does lemon juice go bad? We’ll answer that question below, as well as give some tips to prevent it from going bad and how to store it properly for the longest shelf life.
All About Lemon Juice
What Causes Lemon Juice to Go Bad?
Lemon juice goes bad for a variety of reasons. The most common is that the lemon has started to ferment. Fermentation is a process that happens when foods are exposed to oxygen and bacteria. The lemon juice contains natural acids, which encourage the bacteria to grow. This can make the lemon juice sour and unpleasant to drink.
Another common reason for lemon juice going bad is that it has been exposed to light or air. Exposure to light can cause the color and flavor of the lemon juice to change, while exposure to air can cause it to go bad completely.
If you notice signs that your lemon juice is going bad, such as sourness or a bad smell, don’t eat it.
2: How Long Does Lemon Juice Last?
The shelf life of lemon juice depends on several factors, including the type of lemon juice and how it was stored. In general, fresh lemon juice can last up to two weeks, while bottled lemon juice will last up to six months. However, if your lemons are very sour or if they have been stored in direct sunlight, their shelf life may be shorter.
To keep your lemon juice fresher for longer periods of time, try storing it in an air-right container in the refrigerator. You can even store it in the freezer as well if you’d like.
3: How to Tell If Lemon Juice Is Bad?
There are a couple of ways you can tell if your lemon juice is bad, before using it. One way is to smell it. If Lemon juice has gone bad, it will have a sour smell. If the lemon juice has been exposed to air or light from not being sealed properly, it may also have a strong aroma. So if it tastes bad and is stinky, don’t use it!
Another way to tell if lemon juice is bad is to look for signs of spoilage, such as a cloudy appearance.
If you are uncertain about the quality of your lemon juice, the best bet it to just not use it.
4: How to Prevent Lemon Juice From Going Bad
There are a few ways you can keep lemon juice from going bad and to extend its shelf life. One is to store it in a sealed container in the fridge or freezer. Another is to avoid exposing it to light or air.
So keep it stored in an airtight container in a cool place is the best way to keep your lemon juice fresh.
More Questions About Lemon Juice
Does Bottled Lemon Juice Go Bad?
Bottled lemon juice can last up to six months before going bad. If you are uncertain about the quality of your lemon juice, do not use it.
Does Fresh Lemon Juice Go Bad?
Fresh lemon juice can go bad and will last up to two weeks before it starts to show signs of spoilage.
Does Lemon Juice Concentrate Go Bad?
Lemon juice concentrate can last up to six months before going bad. However, if your lemons are very sour or if they have been stored in direct sunlight, their shelf life may be shorter. To keep your lemon juice fresher for longer periods of time, try storing it in a sealed container in the fridge or freezer instead of open bottles or cans. If you see signs that your lemon juice is going bad, such as sourness or an unpleasant smell, do not consume it.
As you now know, there are several things you can do to ensure that your lemon juice stays fresh and usable for a long time. By following these simple tips, you will be able to keep your lemon juice as fresh as possible for use in your favorite lemon recipes!
