Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Refrigerate
once opened
In the fridgeFridge
2 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Not recommended
texture or safety suffers
On the counterCounter
Not recommended
keep it cold
In the fridgeFridge
3–5 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Not recommended
texture or safety suffers
Quick answer
Yes. Bagged salad lasts 2 days in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if bagged salad is bad
Smell
A sour or rotting smell from the bag or bunch.
Texture
Slimy, wet or wilted leaves that do not perk up in cold water.
Colour
Dark green-black or brown leaves.
Mould
Any fuzzy growth — discard the bag.
Bagged salad past the expiration date
Unopened
FoodKeeper gives unopened bagged salad 3–5 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Opened
Once opened, the printed date no longer applies. Count 2 days in the fridge from the day you open it.
How to keep bagged salad fresh longer
- Unopened product will last 3 - 5 days after date on bag; after opening it will last 2 days.
- Store dry, wrapped in a paper towel inside a bag or container.
- Keep in the crisper drawer at 40°F (4°C) or below.
More about bagged salad
FAQ
How long does it take for bagged salad to go bad?
2 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can bagged salad expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened bagged salad 3–5 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad bagged salad?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep bagged salad from going bad?
Unopened product will last 3 - 5 days after date on bag; after opening it will last 2 days.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number