Yuzu Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Not recommended
keep it cold
In the fridgeFridge
5–7 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Indefinitely
Quick answer
Yes. Yuzu lasts 5–7 days in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if yuzu is bad
Smell
Vinegary, sour or musty instead of fresh.
Taste
Flat, sour or bitter — quality is gone.
Look
Cloudiness, sediment or film that was not there before.
Package
Bulging carton, cap or can — discard.
Yuzu past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened yuzu 5–7 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
Yuzu past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep yuzu fresh longer
- Store fresh yuzu wrapped in plastic in your refrigerator.
- For long term storage of leftovers, freeze the juice and zest.
- Store unopened in a cool, dark place.
More about yuzu
FAQ
How long does it take for yuzu to go bad?
5–7 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can yuzu expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened yuzu 5–7 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 yuzu?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep yuzu from going bad?
Store fresh yuzu wrapped in plastic in your refrigerator.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number