How Long Does Lettuce Last?

How long does head lettuce last in the fridge?

Whole head lettuce lasts 1-3 weeks refrigerated depending on the variety. Iceberg lettuce lasts longest at 2-3 weeks due to its dense leaves and lower water content. Romaine lettuce lasts 1-2 weeks. Boston, Bibb, and butter lettuces last 7-10 days due to more delicate leaves. Leaf lettuces (green leaf, red leaf, oak leaf) last 7-10 days. Store unwashed head lettuce in the crisper drawer wrapped loosely in paper towels and then in a plastic bag; the paper towels absorb excess moisture that would otherwise cause faster wilting and rot. Replace damp paper towels every few days. The high-humidity crisper drawer setting works best for lettuce. Keep lettuce away from apples, pears, bananas, and other ethylene producers that accelerate wilting.

How long does bagged salad last?

Pre-bagged salad lasts 3-7 days from purchase, often listed as a date on the package. Pre-washed bagged greens are typically washed in a chlorinated water solution that extends shelf life beyond what you could achieve at home. However, once you open the bag, the protective atmosphere is broken and the greens start deteriorating faster. Use opened bagged salad within 2-3 days for best quality. The bag's gas exchange technology is designed for unopened storage; resealing doesn't restore the protective atmosphere. Some brands include a 'use by' or 'best by' date that reflects the unopened shelf life. Bagged salads with dressings or croutons last shorter than plain greens because the added ingredients introduce more potential for bacterial growth. Discard any bag that has expanded with gas, which indicates bacterial activity.

How can you tell when lettuce has gone bad?

Bad lettuce shows clear signs. Wilting and limpness across multiple leaves indicates moisture loss and decline; some outer wilting on otherwise fresh lettuce can be removed without discarding the whole head. Slimy texture on the leaves is a definitive bacterial growth sign and means discarding the affected leaves; widespread sliminess means discarding the whole head. Dark brown or black spots on multiple leaves indicate spoilage. Visible mold (often white, gray, or fuzzy) means immediate discard. Sour or fermented smell distinct from the fresh, slightly grassy lettuce aroma indicates spoilage. Excessive moisture pooling at the bottom of the bag or container indicates breakdown. Rust-colored spots on cut lettuce (especially romaine) are oxidation from the cut edges; trim away the discolored portion if the rest looks fresh. Discard rather than risk food poisoning when in doubt.

Can you save wilted lettuce?

Yes, wilted lettuce can often be revived if the wilting is moisture-loss-related (not from bacterial spoilage). Submerge the lettuce leaves in ice-cold water for 10-30 minutes; the leaves absorb water through osmosis and become crisp again. This works particularly well for slightly wilted romaine, butter lettuce, and leaf lettuces. Drain thoroughly with a salad spinner and use immediately or refrigerate. The trick doesn't work on lettuce that has started rotting or developing sliminess; the bacterial breakdown is irreversible. For best results, perform the ice-water revival on the day you plan to use the lettuce, since the revived leaves don't store well afterward.