Pomegranates are a nutrient-rich superfood that offers many health benefits. But how long does pomegranate juice last? And is it okay to freeze it?
In this post, we will explore the shelf life of pomegranate juice and share some tips for storing and freezing it. We will look at different ways to store this fruit juice and which is the best option available. So, let’s dive into it!
Types of Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice that we juice using a pomegranate juicer is not the only type of pomegranate juice available in the market. There are mainly 2 types of pom wonderful juice:
- Fresh Pomegranate Juice
- Packed Pomegranate Juice
Fresh Pomegranate Juice
Fresh pomegranate juice is the juice that we make at home using a pomegranate juicer. It does not have any preservatives and will last for 2 to 5 days max. You can fridge this unsweetened pomegranate juice to make it last longer.
We always recommend drinking fresh pomegranate juice made at home because this pomegranate juice tastes good. Learn about how to juice pomegranate in a juicer and juice fresh pomegranates at home.
Packed Pomegranate Juice
Packed pomegranate juice is the one you will find in the store. It is highly processed and has added preservatives to make it last long on the shelf. Packed pomegranate juice can last for up to 12 months. You can check expiry dates on the pack before purchasing it.
Here, you have to remember that this date works only if the pom juice is unopened. Once you open it, you have to consume it within a week, even if you refrigerate the remaining pomegranate juice.
How to Store Fresh Pomegranate Juice?
Those who don’t want to juice fresh pomegranate can store it for future use. But how to store fresh pomegranate juice? The answer is by freezing it. You can easily store pomegranate juice in the freezer and use it when needed. However, it doesn’t mean that you can store it for years.
According to our experience, pomegranate juice can last in the freezer for about 3 months only without losing its taste. After that, it will start to develop ice crystals, and the taste will also change.
Here are the steps to store pomegranate juice in the freezer:
- Pour the fresh pomegranate juice into an ice-cube tray.
- Freeze it for 3 to 4 hours or until it turns solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the juice cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container.
- You can store it in the freezer for 3 months.
- Thaw the juice cubes when needed and use them within a week.
If you don’t want to store pomegranate juice for this much time, you can refrigerate it rather than freeze it.
How to Store Packed Pomegranate Juice?
Packed pomegranate juice come in different packaging. Depending on the packaging, you have to store it in a different way. There is some packaging that is not healthy, so you have to consider it.
With that said, let’s explore some of these packaging and how to store packed pomegranate juice.
Plastic Bottles
Packed pomegranate juice is available in different types of plastic bottles. The most common type is PET or polyethylene terephthalate. It is safe to store pomegranate juice in this type of bottle. You can easily find PET bottles in the stores.
If you have this type of bottle, you can store pomegranate juice in it and refrigerate it. Check the expiry date on the bottle and you can keep this unopened pomegranate juice till that expiry date. If opened, make sure to consume opened pomegranate juice within a week or two.
Glass Bottles
Most beverages used to be available in glass bottles. But now, you don’t find many beverages in glass bottles. Pomegranate juice is one of those beverages that are still available in glass bottles. These bottles are safe to store pomegranate juice.
You can refrigerate it and consume it within a week or two. The only issue with these bottles is that they are breakable. So, you have to handle them with care or they’ll break and you’ll see pomegranate juice stains everywhere.
Cans
Pomegranates can offer a convenient solution that helps to preserve the freshness and flavor of this fruit. When stored properly, canned pomegranates can last for up to two years. To ensure optimum freshness, it is important to store canned pomegranates in a cool, dry place.
Once opened, they should be consumed within a week. For best results, always refrigerate canned pomegranates after opening. When choosing canned pomegranates, look for those that are free from blemishes and bruising. The fruit should also be firm to the touch.
Pouches
Pomegranate pouches are an easy and convenient way to enjoy this healthy fruit. Pomegranate pouches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze this unopened pom juice for up to six months.
Pomegranate pouches are a great way to add this healthy fruit to your diet. They make a delicious and refreshing snack or addition to any meal. Thanks to their unique packaging, they are also extremely versatile. You can enjoy them straight from the pouch, or use them as an ingredient.
These are some of the common types of packaging in which pomegranate juice is available. You can choose any type of packaging and store pomegranate juice in it. But make sure to check the expiry date and consume it before that.
Pro Tips to Store Pomegranate Juice for Longer
Pomegranate juice is a healthy and delicious drink. But it can go bad quickly if not stored properly. Here are some tips that will help you to store pomegranate juice for longer.
- Always buy fresh pomegranates. Avoid buying the ones that are bruised or have blemishes.
- If you are juicing at home, make sure to use a clean and sterilized juicer.
- If you are buying packed pomegranate juice, check the expiry date before buying.
- Pomegranate juice should be stored in a clean and sterilized container.
- Make sure to refrigerate pomegranate juice as soon as you open it.
- Pomegranate juice can last for up to two weeks in the fridge.
- You can freeze pomegranate juice for up to six months.
How Do You Know When Pomegranate Juice Goes Bad?
Pomegranate juice is a delicious and healthy treat that can add a touch of sweetness to any dish. However, like all fruit juices, it can go bad if it is not stored properly.
There are a few telltale signs that show that pomegranate juice goes bad.
- The first is a change in color. Fresh pomegranate juice is usually a deep red, but if it has gone bad, it will often fade to a brown or pink color.
- Another sign of spoilage is a change in texture. If the juice has separated or become gritty, it has probably gone bad.
- Lastly, if the pomegranate juice develops an off odor, it is best to discard it.
All these are the signs that show that your pom pomegranate juice is bad.
Conclusion
Pomegranate juice is a healthy and delicious drink. But it can go bad quickly if not stored properly or stored for a long time. Yes, homemade pomegranate juice is healthy, but it is not the best option if you want to store pom juice for a long time.
Depending on the type, there is a different time frame for pomegranate juice. If you are juicing at home, make sure to use a clean and sterilized juicer. Pomegranate juice should be stored in a clean and sterilized container.
Check the expiry date before consuming store-bought pomegranate juice and always refrigerate it after opening.
We hope you enjoyed learning about how long pomegranate juice lasts. If you did, be sure to share this blog with others.
Happy Juicing!
