The fig fruit is shaped like a tear, about three inches long and two inches wide, with a green skin that ripens towards purple or brown, and a sweet soft red flesh with numerous crunchy seeds. Figs are harvested during the fall and can be used to make jams, jellies, preserves, and wine.
In this article, we will discuss the shelf life of fresh figs, dried figs, and fig jam. We will also share some tips on how to store your figs for maximum shelf life.
How long do figs last?
The shelf life of figs depends on the storage conditions and whether they are dry or fresh. Dried figs typically have a longer shelf life than fresh figs because of the low moisture content in dried figs. However, if you buy them at the farmers’ market, they will be fresher than those that you find in stores.
Let us examine the shelf life of fresh and dried figs in more detail:
Fresh Figs
Fresh figs are best eaten within a few days after purchase. If you buy fresh figs that look moldy or bruised, discard them immediately. The best way to keep them fresh is by storing them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
What is the shelf life of fresh figs?
- Room temperature: 2 to 3 days
- Refrigerator: 5 to 7 days
- Freezer: 10 to 12 months (best quality)
If stored at room temperature (20°C), fresh figs will stay good for up to 3 days. If they are refrigerated, they should be eaten within a week. They can last longer in the freezer (up to one year), but you may need to thaw them before eating.
Can you freeze figs?
Yes, but they should be thawed before eating. To flash freeze figs, wash and pat dry the fruit. Place on a baking sheet in a single layer with space between them. Freeze for at least 2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag and store in the freezer until ready to use. Thaw frozen figs by placing them in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours.
Read our guide here on how to freeze figs
Should fresh figs be refrigerated?
Figs are perishable and need to be kept in the fridge. They should not be left out at room temperature for more than a few days, as they will begin to spoil. It is recommended that you eat them immediately after purchasing them.
How do you know when fresh figs go bad?
Moldy or mushy figs shouldn’t be eaten. You also want your figs to be firm but not hard. They should have bright purple skin, and they should feel slightly soft and pliable. But don’t let them get mushy!
Dried figs
Depending on the storage conditions, dried figs can last for up to several years. They can be dried at home using a food dehydrator or oven. You can also buy them in bulk from the supermarket or online retailers.
Read: How to dry figs
What is the shelf life of dried figs?
- Room temperature: 6 to 12 months
- Refrigerator: 6 to 12 months
- Freezer: 12 to 18 months (best quality)
At room temperature, dried figs can be stored for up to one year. At refrigerator temperatures, they will also keep for up to a year and up to eighteen months in the freezer.
How do I store dried figs?
Store dried figs in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. To extend their shelf life after opening the package, store them in an airtight container or heavy-duty plastic bag
How long do dried figs keep at room temperature?
Stored in good conditions, dried figs can be kept for around 6 to 12 months at room temperature (around 20°C).
Should you put dried figs in the fridge?
In a warm and humid environment, dried figs should be stored in the refrigerator.
How long do dried figs keep in the fridge?
Dried figs can be stored for 6 to 12 months in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze dried figs?
Yes. Freeze dried figs in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
How long do dried figs keep in the freezer?
Stored in the right conditions, dried figs maintain optimum quality for about 12 to 18 months in the freezer, but remain suitable for consumption beyond this period.
How do you know if dried figs are expired?
The best way is to smell and examine the dried figs. Throw them out if they smell or look unusual, or if mold appears.
Also read: What is the shelf life of fig jam?
How do you store figs long-term?
- For fresh figs, make sure that they are not directly touching each other. You can also store them in a breathable tray or container to keep them from getting squished together.
- To keep your figs fresh for longer, you can either store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Place them in a plastic bag or cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing smells from other foods in your refrigerator.
- Dried figs must be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry area. Keep them away from heat and moisture as much as possible.
- You can also freeze dried figs. Put them in a moisture-proof bag or airtight container first before putting them into the freezer to protect them against moisture.
For more information on how to store figs, read our guide here.
In conclusion, fresh figs have a very short shelf life. They won’t last past three days without going bad. However, dried figs can last for months, which means that you can stock up on them whenever you want. So next time you’re looking for something sweet, why not try some figs instead?
