Does Orange Juice Go Bad? Signs of Fermentation & Shelf Life
Fresh squeezed lasts days; carton OJ lasts a week. If it fizzes or smells like vinegar, it’s fermenting! Don't drink that accidental wine. Learn the signs of spoilage and how to freeze juice for later.
Spoilage Signs
- ⚠️ odor: sour smell
- ⚠️ texture: curdled or separated
- ⚠️ appearance: swollen or bulging container
- ⚠️ appearance: visible mold
Is it spoiled?
Check specific signs of spoilage for Orange juice
Expiration Calculator
Calculate exact shelf life based on purchase date
Shelf Life Guide
| Type | State | Pantry | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carton Packaged Commercial Orange juice | fresh | Not Recommended | Not Recommended | 8-12 months |
| Carton Packaged Commercial Orange juice | opened | Not Recommended | 1 week - 10 days | Not Recommended |
| Frozen Concentrate Commercially Orange juice | fresh | Not Recommended | Not Recommended | 12 months |
| Fresh Sqeeze Squeezed Orange juice | fresh | Not Recommended | 2-3 days | 2-3 weeks |
Data Source: USDA FoodKeeper App
Storage guidelines are based on research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Cornell University.
How Long Does Orange Juice Last? Spoilage Signs and Storage
Orange juice is the essence of sunshine in a glass, but it is also a fragile product. High in sugar and acidity, it is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast if not handled correctly. Unlike water or soda, orange juice has a strict expiration window.
Commercial vs. Fresh Squeezed: A Huge Difference
Not all OJ is created equal. The processing method dictates the shelf life.
1. Commercially Pasteurized (Carton/Plastic Jug)
This juice has been heated to kill bacteria.
- Unopened: Lasts until the printed expiration date (often weeks).
- Opened: Must be refrigerated and finished within 7 to 10 days.
2. Fresh Squeezed (Homemade or In-Store)
This is raw juice. It has active enzymes and natural bacteria.
- Shelf Life: Extremely short. 2 to 3 days maximum in the fridge.
- Warning: Do not try to “stretch” fresh juice. It can turn dangerous quickly.
3. Shelf-Stable (Unrefrigerated Boxes)
These are treated with UHT (Ultra High Temperature) pasteurization.
- Unopened: Months in the pantry.
- Opened: Treat exactly like refrigerated juice—5 to 7 days in the fridge.
Signs Your Orange Juice Is Bad
Orange juice spoilage is usually dramatic. You won’t have to guess.
- The “Fizz”: If you pour a glass and it looks bubbly or carbonated (and it’s not soda), it has fermented. Yeast is eating the sugar. Do not drink it.
- Smell: A sour, vinegar-like, or alcohol-heavy scent.
- Container Bloating: If the carton is swollen or bulging, gases from bacteria are building up inside. Discard immediately without opening.
- Texture: Any sliminess or chunky sediment (distinct from normal pulp) indicates spoilage.
Can You Freeze Orange Juice?
Yes. Freezing is an excellent way to save juice you can’t finish.
- How: Pour into an airtight container, leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top. Liquid expands when frozen!
- Duration: Best within 2 to 3 weeks (14-21 days) for fresh squeezed, or up to 8 months for commercial varieties.
- Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight. Shake well before drinking, as the water and solids may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does orange juice go bad?
Yes, and it can happen quickly. Bacteria and yeast love the sugar in juice, leading to fermentation and spoilage.
How long does fresh squeezed orange juice last?
Freshly squeezed juice is unpasteurized and highly perishable. It should be consumed within 2 to 3 days.
Does orange juice ferment?
Yes. If left too long, yeast can turn the sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide. If your juice tastes fizzy or spicy, it's fermenting.
Can you drink expired orange juice?
If it's commercially pasteurized and unopened, it might be safe a few days past the date, but always check for smell. If opened or fresh-squeezed, do not risk it.
Can you freeze fresh squeezed orange juice?
Yes! Freezing is the best way to preserve fresh juice. Leave some room in the container for expansion, and it will last 2 to 3 weeks.