How to Store Bell Peppers | Shelf Life & Spoilage Signs
Quick Storage Facts
| Storage Method | Duration | Safety | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| counter | 1-2 days | ✅ | Best for fully ripe peppers that will be used quickly |
| refrigerator | 1-2 weeks (whole), 2-3 days (cut) | ✅ | Store in crisper drawer in plastic bag with holes |
| freezer | 10-12 months | ✅ | Freeze sliced or diced peppers on baking sheet first |
| after Cutting | 2-3 days | ✅ | Store in airtight container in refrigerator |
Signs of Spoilage
- •Soft, wrinkled, or shriveled skin
- •Slimy or watery texture
- •Mold growth (white or gray fuzzy spots)
- •Large brown or black spots
- •Hollow or empty feeling when squeezed
- •Fermented or off smell
Storage & Reheating Tips
- •Store bell peppers in the refrigerator's crisper drawer in a plastic bag with a few holes for ventilation
- •Don't wash peppers until ready to use, as excess moisture promotes spoilage
- •Keep peppers whole until ready to use for maximum freshness
- •Cut peppers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- •For freezing, slice or dice peppers, spread on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to freezer bags
- •Frozen peppers are best used in cooked dishes as they become soft when thawed
- •Green bell peppers generally last longer than red, yellow, or orange varieties
Food Safety Reminder
When in doubt, throw it out! Food can harbor harmful bacteria without visible signs of spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions