As a food safety and storage expert, I often get asked about the longevity of various produce items, including celery. Celery is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups, and it's important to know how to store it properly to maintain its freshness and nutritional value.
When it comes to storing celery in the refrigerator, there are a few factors to consider, such as whether it's fresh and whole, pre-packaged, or cooked. Let's delve into each of these scenarios to understand how long you can keep celery in the refrigerator.

### Fresh (Whole) Celery

Fresh, whole celery is typically the most durable and can last for a significant amount of time when stored correctly. The key to prolonging its freshness is to keep it moist, as dehydration can cause it to become limp and lose flavor. Here's how you can store it:


1. Trim the Base: Before storing, trim about half an inch off the base of the celery. This can help to extend its life by preventing the growth of new cells.

2. Wrap in Plastic: Wrap the celery stalks tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a plastic bag. This helps to lock in moisture.

3. Store in the Crisper: The crisper drawer is the ideal place for celery in the refrigerator, as it provides a cool and humid environment.

Under these conditions, fresh whole celery can last for 3-4 weeks. However, it's important to regularly check for signs of spoilage, such as a slimy texture or a strong, unpleasant odor.

### Celery Packages

Pre-packaged celery, often found in the produce section of the grocery store, has a shorter shelf life. This is due to the fact that it's already been cut and exposed to air, which can accelerate spoilage. To store pre-packaged celery:


1. Keep It Sealed: Ensure the packaging is sealed tightly to prevent the exchange of air and moisture with the environment.

2. Refrigerate Promptly: Store the package in the refrigerator as soon as possible after purchase.

Pre-packaged celery typically lasts for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Again, check for signs of spoilage regularly.

### Cooked Celery

Cooked celery has a different storage requirement because it has been exposed to heat, which can affect its texture and shelf life. Here's how to store cooked celery:


1. Cool It Down: Allow the cooked celery to cool to room temperature before storing it.

2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the cooked celery in an airtight container to prevent the absorption of other flavors from the refrigerator.

3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator.

Cooked celery can last for 1 week when stored in this manner. It's important to note that the texture may change over time, becoming softer as the days go by.

### Additional Tips

- Check for Spoilage: Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming. If the celery has a slimy texture, an off smell, or discoloration, it's best to discard it.
- Rotate Your Produce: Make sure to rotate your produce in the refrigerator, using older items first.
- Use Within the Timeframe: Even if the celery looks okay, it's best to use it within the recommended time frames to ensure peak freshness and flavor.

In conclusion, the length of time you can keep celery in the refrigerator depends on its state (fresh, pre-packaged, or cooked) and the storage method used. By following the guidelines above, you can maximize the freshness and shelf life of your celery.

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Chopped raw celery will last for 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. How long does celery last in the fridge once it has been cooked? Cooked celery will usually stay good for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 10 to 12 months in the freezer. Can you freeze celery?read more >>