How to Store Grapes to Keep Them Fresh

There's nothing worse than biting into a mushy grape that's past its prime. Keep your fresh grapes plump, crisp, and tasty by storing them properly.

How to Store Grapes

Make the most of your grapes with these simple storage tips:

Store Grapes In the Fridge

Your refrigerator is the best place to keep fresh grapes. They thrive at about 30-32 degrees Fahrenheit with 90-95% humidity, so go ahead and throw them in the back of your crisper drawer (it's usually the coldest place in the fridge). Also, because grapes can absorb odors, make it a point to not store them directly next to smelly foods like onions or fish.

Store Unwashed

When you get home with a new container of grapes, you might be inclined to rinse them off immediately — but don't. You want to keep the grapes as dry as possible until you plan to eat them, as any excess moisture will speed up the decaying process and cause the fruit to rot more quickly. When you're ready to eat, simply place the grapes in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cool, running water.

Let Them Breathe

You don't need any special container to store grapes properly. In fact, the ventilated bag or plastic box they came in is ideal. Here's why: Grapes need a little breathing room to last as long as possible. Sticking them in an airtight container (like a zip-top bag) creates humidity, which ultimately becomes moisture that accelerates spoilage. If you already tossed the original packaging, any well-ventilated container will do.

To Freeze Or Not to Freeze?

If you don't think you'll use your grapes before they go bad, you may want to consider freezing them. Frozen grapes make fantastic additions to smoothies, can be used in place of ice in cocktails, and are a refreshing and healthy snack on a hot day.

How Long Do Grapes Last?

It depends on how you store them. Stored dry in a well-ventilated container in the crisper drawer of your fridge, grapes can last up to three weeks. They won't last nearly as long at room temperature, and they'll lose their crispness more quickly.

How to Choose Grapes

It's important to inspect grapes at the grocery store before purchasing. Why? Because one bad grape can spoil the whole bunch. In other words, one or two moldy grapes will cause the whole bag to deteriorate faster.

Here are some other things to look for at the grocery store:

• Good grapes are plump and round. Avoid ones that are shriveled, discolored, or show signs of molding.
• Check for stem attachment. When stems are brittle and dry, the grapes fall off and go bad more quickly. Opt for a bunch of grapes that are firmly attached at the stem.
• Don't worry if you see a thin white film on the grapes. This is called a "bloom," and it's actually a good thing! It's a natural waxy layer that protects the grapes and keeps them fresh for longer. It'll easily rinse off when it's time to eat them.

Grape Recipes

Now that you know how to store grapes properly, you're ready to get cooking. Check out some of our favorite ways to enjoy grapes (besides by the bunch):

• Roasted Grape Crostini with Fresh Herbs
• Italian Fresh Purple Grape Cake
• Pork Tenderloin with a Honey Grape Sauce
• Pickled Grapes
• Grilled Tuna Steaks with Grape and Caper Salsa

Explore our entire collection of Grape Recipes.