Plums 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. Plums 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 plums 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.
Plums past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened plums 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
Plums past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep plums 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.
More about plums
FAQ
How long does it take for plums to go bad?
3–5 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can plums expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened plums 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.
What happens if you eat bad plums?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep plums from going bad?
Until Ripe, then 1-2 days. 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