These times assume your refrigerator stays at 40°F or below, the USDA's limit for safe cold storage. Above that, bacteria multiply quickly, so a fridge thermometer is worth having if yours doesn't show its temperature.
How long broccoli and similar foods last
| Food | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli and broccoli rabe | 3–5 days from purchase | 10–12 months | — |
| Cooked vegetables | 3–4 days | 1–2 months | — |
"From purchase" times count from the day you buy it. Times for cooked food count from when it was cooked.
How long does broccoli last in the freezer?
Broccoli keeps 10 to 12 months in the freezer at 0°F. Food kept frozen at 0°F stays safe indefinitely, so that time is about quality: after it, texture and flavor start to suffer. Wrap it airtight, or vacuum seal it, to prevent freezer burn, and thaw in the refrigerator.
How to store broccoli
- Keep the fridge at 40°F or below and the freezer at 0°F.
Check your fridge is at 40°F
Pecula Refrigerator Thermometer (2-Pack)
Dial thermometers for the fridge and freezer, marked with safe zones. Over 32,000 Amazon ratings.
Shallow, airtight leftover storage
Pyrex Simply Store Glass Containers (12-Pack)
Glass containers from 1 to 4 cups with lids that are freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe.
Frequently asked questions
How long does broccoli last in the fridge?
3 to 5 days from the day you buy it, according to USDA FoodKeeper data. Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below.
Can you freeze broccoli?
Yes. Broccoli keeps 10 to 12 months in the freezer at 0°F for best quality. Frozen food stays safe indefinitely, but quality drops over time.
How long other foods last
- Carrots: 2 to 3 weeks in the fridge
- Celery: 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge
- Mushrooms: 3 to 7 days in the fridge
- Onions: 2 months in the fridge
See the full food storage chart for more than 600 foods. Shopping for a new fridge? Our guide to the best refrigerators and the refrigerator size chart can help, and how long refrigerators last covers when to replace an old one.
Sources
Storage times are from the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service's FoodKeeper data, version 128. Food safety rules are from FSIS guidance.
- USDA FSIS, FoodKeeper data (version 128) www.foodsafety.gov/keep-food-safe/foodkeeper-app
- USDA FSIS, Leftovers and Food Safety www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers-and-food-safety
- USDA FSIS, Refrigeration and Food Safety www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/refrigeration