Rutabagas Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
1 week
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
2–3 weeks
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
8–10 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Rutabagas last 2–3 weeks in the fridge and 8–10 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if rutabagas 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.
Rutabagas past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened rutabagas 1 week in the pantry or 2–3 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
Rutabagas past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep rutabagas fresh longer
- Store unwashed; wash just before eating.
- Keep ethylene producers (apples, bananas, avocados) away from produce that over-ripens.
- Refrigerate once cut, in a covered container.
More about rutabagas
FAQ
How long does it take for rutabagas to go bad?
2–3 weeks in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can rutabagas expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened rutabagas 1 week in the pantry or 2–3 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 rutabagas?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep rutabagas from going bad?
Store unwashed; wash just before eating.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number