How Long Does Food Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator? Find Out Here!

**Tip:** Seafood is best eaten as fresh as possible. If unsure, smell it — any strong, sour odor means it’s time to toss.

—

## 🍳 Eggs & Dairy

| Food Item | Refrigerator Life |
| —————- | ——————– |
| Fresh eggs | 3–5 weeks |
| Hard-boiled eggs | 1 week |
| Milk | 7 days after opening |
| Yogurt | 1–2 weeks |
| Butter | 1–2 months |
| Cheese (soft) | 1 week after opening |
| Cheese (hard) | 3–4 weeks after open |

**Tip:** Keep dairy in the coldest part of the fridge, not in the door where temps fluctuate.

—

## 🍝 Leftovers

| Food Type | Refrigerator Life |
| —————– | —————– |
| Cooked pasta/rice | 3–5 days |
| Cooked vegetables | 3–4 days |
| Casseroles | 3–4 days |
| Soups/stews | 3–4 days |
| Pizza | 3–4 days |

**Tip:** Label leftovers with the date you stored them so you don’t lose track.

—

## 🍓 Fruits & Vegetables

| Produce Type | Refrigerator Life |
| —————————- | ———————— |
| Leafy greens | 5–7 days |
| Berries (strawberries, etc.) | 3–5 days |
| Apples | Up to 1 month |
| Carrots | 3–4 weeks |
| Tomatoes | Best stored at room temp |

**Tip:** Keep fruits and veggies separate — many fruits release ethylene gas, which speeds up spoilage in vegetables.

—

## General Guidelines

✅ **Use the “first in, first out” rule**: Place newer items behind older ones so you use them in the right order.

✅ **Keep your fridge at or below 40°F (4°C)** to slow bacterial growth.

✅ **If in doubt, throw it out.** No meal is worth a foodborne illness!

—

## Final Thoughts

Your refrigerator is one of the best tools for extending food life, but it’s only effective if you know how long items really last. Keeping this quick guide handy can help you **save money, reduce waste, and keep your meals safe** for everyone at home.

—

Would you like a printable version of this fridge storage chart or tips for organizing your fridge efficiently?