How Long Do Hearts of Palm Last in the Fridge?
How long do hearts of palm stay fresh?
Hearts of palm last about 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Hearts of palm offer a unique, creamy texture that makes them a staple in many tropical dishes. Because they are often sold pre-processed and packed in brine or water, their shelf life depends heavily on how they are packaged and handled after opening. When kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these hearts of palm maintain their firm structure and mild flavor for several days to a week. If you have opened a jar or tin but cannot use the entire portion immediately, storing them properly ensures they remain a versatile ingredient for your next meal without compromising food safety.
Heads up: shelf-life ranges are estimates based on home storage. We make no guarantee of accuracy. When unsure, throw it out.
The full timeline
Day 1 (Peak Fresh)
1 day
- Firm and crisp texture
- Pale cream color
- No visible slime or film
- Use immediately in salads
- Store in an airtight container
Day 7 (Still Good)
1 week
- Slightly softened edges
- Consistent color throughout
- Moist but not slippery surface
- Incorporate into salads
- Sauté with garlic and oil
Day 10 (Caution)
8–14 days
- Noticeable discoloration
- Soft or mushy texture
- Minor slimy film on surface
- Cook thoroughly in heat-applied dishes
- Discard if sliminess is present
Day 14 (Unsafe)
Over 2 weeks
- Heavy or thick slime
- Grayish tint or dark spots
- Strong, unpleasant odor
- Toss immediately
Common questions
How long can I keep hearts of palm in the refrigerator?
Hearts of palm last about 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly. To maintain freshness, transfer them to an airtight container or ensure the original jar is tightly sealed.
Can I freeze hearts of palm?
Yes, you can freeze them for several months. Because freezing affects texture, they are best used in cooked dishes after thawing rather than eaten raw.
Why do my hearts of palm feel slimy?
Sliminess is a sign of bacterial growth or that the product has sat in its liquid for too long. If the texture is noticeably slippery, discard them.
Should I store hearts of palm in their canning liquid?
Yes. Keeping hearts of palm submerged in their brine or water helps maintain their texture and prevents oxidation while they are in the refrigerator.
Keep them chilled and dry to keep those hearts of palm firm and delicious for your next feast!