Leaf lettuce Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Not recommended
keep it cold
In the fridgeFridge
3–7 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Not recommended
texture or safety suffers
Quick answer
Yes. Leaf lettuce lasts 3–7 days in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if leaf lettuce is bad
Smell
A sour or rotting smell from the bag or bunch.
Texture
Slimy, wet or wilted leaves that do not perk up in cold water.
Colour
Dark green-black or brown leaves.
Mould
Any fuzzy growth — discard the bag.
Leaf lettuce past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened leaf lettuce 3–7 days 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
Leaf lettuce past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep leaf lettuce fresh longer
- Store dry, wrapped in a paper towel inside a bag or container.
- Keep in the crisper drawer at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Stand herbs like cilantro and parsley in a glass of water in the fridge, loosely covered.
More about leaf lettuce
FAQ
How long does it take for leaf lettuce to go bad?
3–7 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can leaf lettuce expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened leaf lettuce 3–7 days 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 leaf lettuce?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep leaf lettuce from going bad?
Store dry, wrapped in a paper towel inside a bag or container.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number