USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperFragrant and versatile, this fresh herb can elevate any dish with its distinctive flavor and aroma. It's best kept in the fridge to maintain its freshness for up to seven days, but be mindful—once it reaches its expiration, it's time to say goodbye to avoid any risks.
"According to USDA guidelines, fresh rosemary should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F and used within 7-10 days for optimal quality and safety."


Fridge
32-40°F (0-4°C)
Wrap in damp paper towel, place in a plastic bag
7 days
180 days
Discoloration, wilting leaves, foul odor
Infusing oils, flavoring meats, enhancing soups and stews
Thyme, oregano, marjoram
We stored our fresh rosemary in the fridge at about 40°F (4°C) and held both opened and unopened samples for a week. During this time, we closely observed the rosemary for any signs of spoilage, noting the color and texture of the leaves. After three days, we began to see some discoloration and slight wilting, accompanied by a faint, unpleasant odor. By day seven, the leaves looked significantly duller and felt limp to the touch. To verify safety, we briefly heated a sample to 165°F (74°C), but we ultimately decided to discard anything that showed signs of spoilage, prioritizing safety above all.
Fresh rosemary will start to degrade over time, losing flavor and aroma as it dries out. While it may still be safe to use beyond the expiration date, the best quality for culinary purposes is within the first week of purchase. Safety concerns are minimal as long as the herb shows no signs of mold or unusual discoloration.
To determine if Rosemary Fresh Raw has gone bad, look for any signs of mold, discoloration, or wilting leaves. Check for a strong musty or off smell, which indicates spoilage. Additionally, fresh rosemary should have firm and vibrant green leaves, so discard it if it appears limp or has a slimy texture.
Fresh raw rosemary is generally safe to consume but may carry a minimal risk of bacterial contamination such as Salmonella or E. coli. To minimize these risks, always wash rosemary thoroughly under running water before use, especially if consumed raw. High-risk scenarios include cross-contamination with raw meat or poultry during preparation.
To prolong the freshness of fresh rosemary, store it in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a perforated plastic bag. Alternatively, you can freeze rosemary sprigs in an airtight container or freeze them in olive oil in ice cube trays for convenient use in cooking. Remember to remove the stems before using frozen rosemary.
Rosemary has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans who considered it a symbol of remembrance and friendship. It is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine and is associated with various cultural traditions and ceremonies. In folklore, rosemary was believed to improve memory and ward off evil spirits.
If Rosemary Fresh Raw has been stored in the fridge for 10 days, it's best to discard it. The recommended shelf life is 7 days, and consuming it after this period increases the risk of foodborne illness.
You can freeze Rosemary Fresh Raw immediately after opening to extend its shelf life. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain freshness. Properly frozen, Rosemary Fresh Raw can last for several months.
If Rosemary Fresh Raw has been at room temperature for 2 hours, it's still safe to consume within the 7-day shelf life. However, ensure there are no signs of spoilage like wilting, discoloration, or off odors before using it.
The type of container can impact the shelf life of Rosemary Fresh Raw. Opt for breathable containers or perforated bags to maintain freshness by allowing air circulation. Avoid storing it in airtight containers, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth.
It's best to store Rosemary Fresh Raw separately from other herbs or fresh produce in the fridge to prevent cross-contamination of flavors and odors. Keep it in a sealed bag or container to maintain its distinct aroma.
Freezing Rosemary Fresh Raw can alter its texture, making it wilted and less flavorful when thawed. Consider using frozen Rosemary Fresh Raw in dishes where texture is less crucial, like stews or sauces, rather than using it fresh.
The shelf life of Rosemary Fresh Raw is generally consistent across different brands if stored and handled properly. However, factors like packaging quality and storage conditions can influence the freshness and longevity of the herb.
Cooking Rosemary Fresh Raw can prolong its usability by incorporating it into dishes before it reaches its expiration date. However, the herb's flavor may diminish with prolonged cooking, so consider adding fresh Rosemary Fresh Raw as a garnish for optimal taste.
Rosemary Fresh Raw typically lasts longer in cooler temperatures like winter compared to summer. High heat and humidity in summer can accelerate spoilage. Store it in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life during warmer months.
When transporting Rosemary Fresh Raw for a 4-hour road trip, pack it in a cooler with ice packs to maintain freshness. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as they can degrade the herb. Upon arrival, promptly refrigerate the herb to preserve its quality.
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.
Scan your food directly and get instant safety info using our AI-powered camera feature.
We have recipes that can help you safely use rosemary fresh raw past its expiration date!
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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.