How Long Do Grapefruits Last?

Grapefruits are a delicious mix of tangy and sweet, an undeniably refreshing snack, and the perfect addition to your favorite recipes. But, to enjoy their

Segments of red grapefruit in a black bowl

juicy goodness for the longest time possible, you need to store them properly! Whether you keep them in the fridge, on the counter, or freeze them for later, the right storage method can make all the difference.

 

Keep reading to find out how long your Texas Rio red grapefruits last in different conditions and the best ways to keep them fresh. Plus, if you’re a business owner handling bulk citrus fruits, we have great storage tips for you, too!

How Long Do Grapefruits Last at Room Temperature?

So, you just stocked up on some juicy Texas Rio red grapefruits, and now you're wondering—how long can they chill in your fruit bowl before they go bad? Well, we’ve got the answer: your grapefruits can stay fresh for about five to seven days if left out at room temp.

Yep, if you leave them at room temperature, you've got about a week before grapefruit start to lose their freshness. If you want to make the most of that sweet, tangy goodness, here’s how to store them right in on your counter:

  • Keep Them in a Cool, Dry Spot – Avoid warm areas or direct sunlight, as heat speeds up the ripening process.
  • Space Them Out – Let your grapefruits breathe! Stacking them in a bowl can trap moisture and speed up spoilage.
  • Choose the Right Storage Option – If you don’t plan on eating them in a few days, consider dropping them in the fridge instead. They’ll stay fresh for up to six weeks in the crisper drawer!

So, the counter is fine if you plan to snack on your grapefruit stash within a week. But the fridge is your best friend if you’re in it for the long haul!

How Long Do Grapefruits Last in the Fridge?

If you want your grapefruits to maintain their nutrients and stay fresh for longer, the fridge is one of the best places to put them! All types of grapefruits can last up to six weeks in the refrigerator when they are properly stored. Here’s how to keep your grapefruits fresh using your fridge:

  • Use the Crisper Drawer – A crisper drawer maintains a very good humidity level and prevents your fruit from drying out.
  • Keep Them Whole – Once you cut a grapefruit, it can only stay fresh for about three to four days in an airtight container.
  • Use Breathable Plastic Bags – Trapping moisture can lead to mold. Instead, use a breathable produce bag.

How Long Do Grapefruits Last in the Freezer?

Want to enjoy that juicy, sweet grapefruit taste all year long? Freezing is the way to go! When stored properly, grapefruit can last up to a year in the freezer without losing their delightful flavor. But, don’t just toss them in—here’s how to prepare grapefruit for freezing:

  • Peel and Segment – Whole grapefruits don’t freeze well. Instead, use a sharp knife to remove the peel, separate the segments, and remove any seeds before storing them in the freezer.
  • Use an Airtight Container or a Freezer Bag – This container locks in the freshness and prevents freezer burn.
  • Freeze Grapefruits in Syrup – For an extra burst of flavor, store your Texas Rio red grapefruit segments in a light sugar syrup before freezing.

Tips for Business Owners Storing Grapefruit

If you run a grapefruit juice bar, café, or grocery store, you already know that keeping your grapefruits fresh is the key to happy customers! Here’s how to extend shelf life and reduce waste if you plan to sell Texas Rio red grapefruits at your business:

  • Buy in Batches – Don’t overstock! Order what you’ll sell within two weeks.
  • Store at 45-50°F – This temperature keeps your grapefruits fresher than room temperature but prevents chilling damage from colder refrigerators.
  • Rotate Stock – Sell the oldest grapefruits first to prevent spoilage.
  • Keep Them Dry – Moisture usually leads to mold, so store your grapefruits in a well-ventilated space.
  • Freeze Excess – If you have too many grapefruits, you can peel and cut grapefruit into segments to freeze for later grapefruit juices and desserts.

With the right storage methods, your grapefruits will stay fresh, delicious, and ready for your customers to enjoy!

How to Tell When a Grapefruit Has Gone Bad

Nobody wants to bite into a spoiled grapefruit! Luckily, it’s easy to tell when your grapefruit has passed its prime. Here’s what to look out for:

  • Soft Spots and Wrinkles — A fresh grapefruit should feel firm. If it’s overly soft or has deep wrinkles, it has probably gone bad.
  • Mold and Discoloration – Any white, green, or fuzzy spots mean it’s time to toss that fruit. Mold spreads fast, so don’t take any chances!
  • Off Smell – A fresh grapefruit has a bright, citrusy aroma. If it smells sour, fermented, or just "off," it’s probably no longer good.
  • Leaking Juice – If your grapefruit feels unusually heavy and leaks liquid, the inner fruit is probably breaking down.

Keep Your Grapefruits Fresh and Flavorful With These Easy Storage Tips!

The grapefruit season may be over, but don’t worry—it’ll return before you know it! While you wait for the return of the sweetest, juiciest Texas Rio red grapefruits, stay in the loop by signing up for our newsletter. 

Be the first to know when our fresh grapefruits are back in season and get exclusive updates and special offers directly in your email!

Don’t miss out! Sign up today and get ready for the sweetest comeback of our fresh Texas Rio red grapefruits!

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