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Gunther Heller

Does Yuzu Go Bad?

Source: USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS · last verified November 2026

Illustration of yuzu
Yuzu Per USDA FoodKeeper
Counter
Not recommended
keep it cold
Fridge
5–7 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
Freezer
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

More “does it go bad?” answers, A–Z →

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