How to Store Garlic | Shelf Life & Spoilage Signs
Quick Storage Facts
| Storage Method | Duration | Safety | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| room Temperature | 3-6 months (whole bulbs) | ✅ | Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated place |
| refrigerator | 1-2 weeks (peeled cloves), 2-3 days (minced) | ⚠️ | Can become rubbery; better stored at room temperature |
| freezer | 10-12 months | ✅ | Freeze minced in oil or whole peeled cloves |
Signs of Spoilage
- •Sprouting (green shoots emerging from cloves)
- •Soft or mushy cloves
- •Brown spots or discoloration
- •Mold growth (usually appears as blue or green spots)
- •Strong, unpleasant odor different from normal garlic smell
- •Yellowing or drying of the entire bulb
- •Hollow or shriveled cloves
Storage & Reheating Tips
- •Store whole garlic bulbs in a dry, well-ventilated container like a mesh bag or loosely woven basket
- •Keep garlic away from high-moisture foods and direct sunlight
- •Ideal storage temperature is between 60-65°F (15-18°C) with moderate humidity
- •Once a bulb is broken, use the remaining cloves within 10 days
- •Peeled cloves can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container
- •For long-term storage, mince garlic and freeze in oil in ice cube trays
- •Sprouted garlic is still edible - just remove the green sprout which can be bitter
Food Safety Reminder
When in doubt, throw it out! Food can harbor harmful bacteria without visible signs of spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions