How long do Mushrooms last? Outside and Refrigerated

Fresh mushrooms have a relatively short shelf life. With proper storage, they can last up to a week outside of refrigeration. Inside a refrigerator, fresh mushrooms can last up to 2 weeks. Shelf life also depends on the variety of mushrooms and their storage conditions.

Storing your Mushrooms right

• It’s important to store them in a breathable container. Your best option is a basket. Alternatively, use a cardboard box or paper bag. NEVER store them in plastic bags or plastic-wrapped containers.
• Make sure your mushrooms are not drenched with moisture or dirty. Processing them well before storage will greatly increase their shelf life. 
• Don’t place them on top of each other. For this reason, it is better to use a wide container instead of a tall one. 

How long do Mushrooms last Outside?

About one week. In hot climates, they may only last a day or two. In cold climates, they could last for up to 2 weeks. Different species also have vastly different rates of decomposition. Make sure to protect them from bugs and place them in a breathable container. A cool and dark place in your kitchen is recommended.

How long do Mushrooms last in the Refrigerator?

Up to 2 weeks. As previously mentioned, keep them in a breathable container with the lid off. Make sure the temperature is not too low as freezing will greatly damage their texture. 

Can I freeze Mushrooms?

Freezing fresh mushrooms is not recommended. This degrades their texture into a slimy consistency. Alternatively, you can cook and then freeze your mushrooms. This will serve better at protecting their flavor and texture.

Related: In-depth guide on how to Freeze Mushrooms

The Shelf Life of common Mushrooms 

• Reishi (Ganoderma sp.)- Long Shelf Life
• Turkey Tail Mushroom (Trametes sp.) Long Shelf Life
• Chanterelles (Cantharellus sp.) – Medium Shelf Life
• White Button Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)- Medium Shelf Life
• Portobello Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)- Medium Shelf Life
• Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus sp.)- Short/Medium Shelf Life
• Hedge Hog Mushrooms (Hydnum sp.)- Medium Shelf Life
• Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)- Medium Shelf Life
• Blewits (Clitocybe nuda)- Short/Medium Shelf Life
• Lion’s Mane (Hericium sp.)- Short Shelf Life
• Boletes (Boletus sp.) – Short Shelf Life 
• Russulas (Russula sp.)- Short Shelf Life
• Lobster Mushrooms (Hypomyces lactifluorum)– Short Shelf Life

Short Shelf Life – Less Than 4 Days Unrefrigerated Medium Shelf Life – 4-10 Days Unrefrigerated Long Shelf Life – 10+ Days Refrigerated

How do I know when my Mushrooms have gone bad?

This is pretty self-explanatory and it’s best to use your judgment on this issue. If you have any doubts, throw them out. There is no need to risk getting sick from eating spoiled mushrooms!

• Mold – Green, Blue, and White molds are common on different mushrooms. By the time you find these growing it’s probably a bit too late to bother trying to salvage them.
• Unpleasant Odors – Spoiled mushrooms tend to have unpleasant odors. These can range from fishy to musky, or even earthy smells. 
• Slimy Surfaces – This doesn’t mean that they have spoiled, but it can suggest improper storage. If there are no other signs of having spoiled, eat them quickly before they go off!
• Darkening of Color – As mushrooms age their surfaces may darken. This is largely due to oxidation. While this isn’t inherently bad, it may suggest they are beginning to go off. Some mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, begin gaining a bitter flavor from oxidation.