USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperKnown as the "king of fruits," this unique tropical delight captivates with its strong aroma and creamy texture. To enjoy its rich flavors at their best, store it on your countertop, where it remains fresh for up to five days, and even a couple of days beyond its prime, it's still safe to savor.
Durian may remain safe to consume after its expiration date if it has been stored correctly at the proper temperature and shows no signs of spoilage. However, risk increases over time, especially if storage conditions were not optimal.
Storage timeline guidance: Some food safety sources suggest that durian, when stored properly at the correct temperature and showing no spoilage signs, may remain usable for approximately 2 days after its expiration date.
Important: This is not a guarantee of safety. Food safety depends on many factors including storage temperature, handling, initial freshness, and contamination risk. Always inspect food carefully for spoilage signs (odor, texture, color changes) before consuming. When in doubt, discard it to avoid foodborne illness.
"Durian should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and consumed within 2-4 days to ensure food safety, according to FDA recommendations."


Countertop
Room temperature
Keep at room temperature until ripe
Proper airflow and humidity control can extend produce freshness. Using produce storage containers (Amazon) in the refrigerator helps regulate moisture and slow spoilage.
5 days
Fermented smell beyond normal, excessive softening
Use in desserts or milkshakes
Jackfruit, soursop
Durian does not have a strict expiration date like some foods due to its unique characteristics. However, the fruit is best consumed when fresh. As durian ripens, it becomes softer and more aromatic, reaching its peak flavor. Once durian is overripe, the taste can become unpleasant and the texture may turn mushy. Therefore, the best quality durian is typically consumed within a few days of ripeness, while expired durian may not necessarily make you sick but may not be enjoyable to eat.
To check if durian has gone bad, look for any dark spots or mold on the skin, and avoid fruits with these signs. A strong, unpleasant odor is a clear sign of spoilage. Additionally, if the flesh feels overly mushy or slimy, it is best to discard the durian to avoid consuming spoiled fruit.
Durian is a unique tropical fruit known for its strong odor, which some find unpleasant. While the smell poses no health risk, the fruit itself can be a source of foodborne illness if not handled properly. The spiky outer shell of the durian can harbor bacteria, so it's important to wash the fruit thoroughly before consuming. Additionally, durian should be consumed fresh and not kept at room temperature for extended periods to reduce the risk of microbial contamination.
To store durian, it is best to keep the fruit in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process. If you have leftover durian, you can freeze it for future use in smoothies or desserts. When selecting durian, look for fruits with intact stems and minimal damage to the skin. Avoid durians with visible mold or off-putting odors, as these may indicate spoilage. When opening a durian, be cautious of the sharp spikes on the shell and use gloves or a cloth to protect your hands.
Durian is often referred to as the 'King of Fruits' in Southeast Asia, where it is highly prized for its rich, creamy texture and complex flavor profile. While some people love the intense aroma of durian, others find it overpowering and liken it to the smell of rotten onions or gym socks. In many countries where durian is popular, there are strict rules against bringing the fruit into public spaces or hotels due to its strong smell.
If Durian has been at room temperature for a few hours, it's safe to eat as long as it still looks and smells normal. However, prolonged exposure to room temperature can affect its quality. To be safe, refrigerate it if unsure.
Once Durian is cut open, it's best to consume it within the same day. The exposed flesh can quickly deteriorate and may become unsafe to eat after a few hours. Store cut Durian in an airtight container in the refrigerator for the best quality.
The type of container can impact Durian's shelf life. Airtight containers help maintain freshness and prevent odors from affecting the fruit. Avoid storing Durian in containers that are not airtight as it can lead to quicker spoilage.
Still not sure if it's safe?
Our Food Expiration & Storage Quick Guide helps you decide quickly — with clear keep-or-discard rules for the most common foods.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications.
Reviewed by the Can I Eat Expired Editorial Team, using food safety guidance from the USDA, FDA, CDC, and university extension programs.
Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.
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