Kumquats Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Until ripe
then refrigerate
In the fridgeFridge
3 weeks
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Not recommended
texture or safety suffers
Quick answer
Yes. Kumquats last 3 weeks in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if kumquats are bad
Smell
Fermented, sour or musty odour.
Texture
Soft, mushy or leaking spots, or wrinkled skin with soft flesh.
Colour
Dark bruising that spreads, or browning inside.
Mould
White, grey or green fuzz — discard soft produce; cut firm produce generously.
Kumquats past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened kumquats 3 weeks in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Kumquats past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep kumquats fresh longer
- Ripe is when this item is tender, fully developed and ready to eat.
- Timeline for refrigerator applies to ripe fruit.
- Store unwashed; wash just before eating.
More about kumquats
FAQ
How long does it take for kumquats to go bad?
3 weeks in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can kumquats expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened kumquats 3 weeks in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad kumquats?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep kumquats from going bad?
Ripe is when this item is tender, fully developed and ready to eat.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number