Do Peaches, Plums and Pears Go Bad? How to Tell + Shelf Life (3

Peaches, plums and pears Per USDA FoodKeeper

On the counterCounter

Until ripe

then refrigerate

In the fridgeFridge

3–5 days

at or below 40°F (4°C)

In the freezerFreezer

2 months

at 0°F; quality, not safety

Quick answer

Yes. Peaches, plums and pears last 3–5 days in the fridge and 2 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.

How to tell if peaches, plums and pears 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.

Peaches, plums and pears past the expiration date

Best-by and sell-by

FoodKeeper gives unopened peaches, plums and pears 3–5 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

Peaches, plums and pears past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.

How to keep peaches, plums and pears fresh longer

Until Ripe, then 1-2 days. Ripe is when this item is tender, fully developed and ready to eat.
Timeline for refrigerator applies to ripe fruit.
Freezing guidance applies to product when sliced, with lemon juice and sugar.