Lime juice can expire; fresh juice lasts about 2-3 days in the fridge, while bottled lime juice can last several months if unopened and stored properly.
Lime juice is a staple in kitchens worldwide, adding a bright, tangy flavor to dishes and drinks. But like all perishable items, it doesn’t last forever. Understanding how long lime juice stays fresh—and how to store it properly—can help you avoid waste and ensure your recipes taste their best.
How Long Does Lime Juice Last?
The shelf life of lime juice depends on whether it’s fresh-squeezed or commercially bottled, and whether it’s opened or unopened.
Fresh Lime Juice
- Room temperature: 2-4 hours
- Refrigerated: 2-3 days in airtight container
- Frozen: 4-6 months (best quality)
Bottled Lime Juice
| Storage Condition | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Unopened (pantry) | 12-18 months |
| Opened (refrigerated) | 6-8 weeks |
For the freshest flavor, consider using a quality citrus juicer to make small batches as needed.
How to Tell If Lime Juice Has Gone Bad
Watch for these signs of spoilage:
- Smell: Fresh lime juice has a bright, citrusy aroma. If it smells fermented or off, discard it.
- Taste: A small sip should taste tart and fresh. Any bitterness or flatness means it’s past its prime.
- Appearance: While some darkening is normal, mold or cloudiness indicates spoilage.
- Texture: Fresh juice is thin and watery. Thickening or separation is a bad sign.
Best Ways to Store Lime Juice
Refrigeration Tips
- Always refrigerate opened lime juice
- Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers
- Fill containers nearly full to minimize air exposure
Freezing Lime Juice
Freezing is excellent for preserving lime juice long-term:
- Pour into ice cube trays (1 tbsp per cube)
- Once frozen, transfer to airtight bags
- Label with date (use within 6 months)
For large quantities, consider a commercial juicer that can handle bulk citrus processing.
Extending Lime Juice Freshness
For Fresh Juice
- Strain out pulp before storing
- Add a thin layer of olive oil to block air
- Store in coldest part of fridge (not door)
For Bottled Juice
- Wipe bottle rim before recapping
- Consider transferring to smaller container as you use it
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods
Creative Uses for Older Lime Juice
If your lime juice is slightly past its prime but not spoiled, try:
- Cleaning: Mix with salt for a natural scrub
- Marinades: The acidity helps tenderize meats
- Hair rinse: Can add shine to dark hair
According to USDA guidelines, properly stored lime juice remains safe well beyond its “best by” date if it shows no signs of spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze lime juice?
Yes! Freezing preserves lime juice beautifully. Use within 6 months for best quality.
Does lime juice need to be refrigerated?
Once opened, absolutely. Unopened commercial juice can stay at room temperature until the best-by date.
Can you substitute lemon juice for lime juice?
While possible in some recipes, the flavors differ. Lime is more floral while lemon is brighter. For authentic flavor, use the juice specified.
For those who juice frequently, investing in a cold press juicer can yield higher quality juice that lasts longer due to minimal oxidation.
