Lettuce is one of the most common vegetables in households, yet it is also one of the most frequently wasted. Many people search for how long does lettuce last because lettuce can spoil quickly if stored incorrectly. Understanding lettuce shelf life, proper storage methods, and spoilage signs can help you keep lettuce fresh longer, reduce food waste, and avoid food safety risks.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how long lettuce lasts in the fridge, at room temperature, and in the freezer, with detailed breakdowns by lettuce type and storage method.
-
Salad Calories: A Complete Guide to Calories in Salads (With Examples & Tips)
-
How to Keep Sandwiches Fresh for Hours or Days with Proper Storage
-
Can You Freeze Chicken Salad Without Ruining the Texture?
How Long Does Lettuce Last?
On average, lettuce lasts 7–14 days in the refrigerator, depending on the type of lettuce and how it is stored. Some varieties last longer than others, and whole heads typically last longer than cut or shredded lettuce.
Key factors that affect lettuce shelf life include:
-
Type of lettuce
-
Storage temperature
-
Moisture levels
-
Whether the lettuce is whole, washed, or cut
How Long Does Lettuce Last in the Refrigerator?
Refrigeration is the best way to extend lettuce shelf life.
Whole Head Lettuce Shelf Life
-
Iceberg lettuce: 10–14 days
-
Romaine lettuce: 7–10 days
-
Butterhead, Boston, Bibb lettuce: 5–7 days
-
Loose leaf lettuce (green or red): 5–7 days
Whole lettuce lasts longer because the leaves are protected from excess moisture and air exposure.
Cut or Chopped Lettuce Shelf Life
-
Chopped lettuce: 3–7 days
-
Shredded lettuce: 3–5 days
Cutting lettuce damages the cell structure, causing faster moisture loss and spoilage.
Bagged Lettuce Shelf Life
-
Unopened bagged lettuce: 7–10 days (check expiration date)
-
Opened bagged lettuce: 3–5 days
Bagged lettuce spoils faster once exposed to air and moisture.
How Long Does Lettuce Last at Room Temperature?
Lettuce should not be left at room temperature for long periods.
-
Whole lettuce at room temperature: 2–4 hours
-
Cut or shredded lettuce: 1–2 hours
After this time, bacteria growth increases rapidly, making lettuce unsafe to eat. Warm temperatures accelerate wilting and spoilage.
How Long Does Lettuce Last in the Freezer?
Freezing lettuce is not recommended for fresh salads.
-
Frozen lettuce shelf life: up to 6 months
-
Best use for frozen lettuce: soups, smoothies, cooked dishes
Freezing breaks down lettuce’s structure, resulting in a soft, watery texture once thawed.
How Long Different Types of Lettuce Last
Iceberg Lettuce Shelf Life
Iceberg lettuce lasts the longest due to its dense structure.
Refrigerator: 10–14 days
Romaine Lettuce Shelf Life
Romaine lettuce is sturdier than leaf lettuce.
Refrigerator: 7–10 days
Leaf Lettuce Shelf Life
Loose leaf lettuce spoils faster.
Refrigerator: 5–7 days
Butterhead Lettuce Shelf Life
Butterhead varieties are delicate.
Refrigerator: 5–7 days
Shredded Lettuce Shelf Life
Shredded lettuce has the shortest lifespan.
Refrigerator: 3–5 days
Best Ways to Store Lettuce to Make It Last Longer
Store Lettuce in the Refrigerator Properly
-
Place lettuce in the crisper drawer
-
Keep lettuce away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas
-
Maintain low humidity but avoid excess moisture
Use Paper Towels to Control Moisture
Excess moisture causes slimy lettuce. Wrap lettuce in dry paper towels and place it in a breathable bag or container.
Request Free Packaging Samples
Should You Wash Lettuce Before Storing?
-
Washing before storage can shorten shelf life if not dried thoroughly
-
If washed, dry lettuce completely before refrigerating
Airtight vs Breathable Containers
-
Airtight containers trap moisture
-
Breathable produce bags or containers help extend lettuce freshness
How to Tell If Lettuce Has Gone Bad
Discard lettuce if you notice:
-
Slimy or mushy texture
-
Strong sour or rotten smell
-
Dark brown or black spots
-
Excessive wilting combined with moisture
Slight wilting alone does not always mean lettuce is bad, but slime or odor indicates spoilage.
Is It Safe to Eat Expired Lettuce?
Eating spoiled lettuce can cause foodborne illness. If lettuce smells bad, feels slimy, or shows signs of mold, it should be thrown away. When in doubt, discard it.
Common Mistakes That Reduce Lettuce Shelf Life
-
Storing lettuce wet
-
Sealing lettuce in airtight containers
-
Leaving lettuce near warm areas
-
Ignoring condensation inside storage bags
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly extend how long lettuce lasts.
How to Make Lettuce Last Longer: Pro Tips
-
Store lettuce whole whenever possible
-
Replace paper towels if they become damp
-
Keep refrigerator temperature at or below 40°F (4°C)
-
Do not store lettuce near raw meat or seafood
FAQs About How Long Lettuce Lasts
How long does lettuce last in the fridge?
Most lettuce lasts 5–14 days in the refrigerator, depending on the type and storage method.
How long does shredded lettuce last?
Shredded lettuce typically lasts 3–5 days in the fridge.
Can lettuce last more than two weeks?
Iceberg lettuce may last up to 14 days if stored properly, but most types will not.
How do you keep lettuce fresh longer?
Use paper towels, store in the crisper drawer, and avoid excess moisture.
Can you freeze lettuce?
Yes, but frozen lettuce is best used for cooked dishes, not salads.
Conclusion
Knowing how long lettuce lasts helps you plan meals, reduce waste, and stay safe. With proper storage, most lettuce can stay fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Choosing the right storage method makes a significant difference in lettuce shelf life and quality.
