Does Romaine Lettuce Go Bad? How to Tell + Shelf Life (1

Romaine lettuce Per USDA FoodKeeper

On the counterCounter

Not recommended

keep it cold

In the fridgeFridge

1–2 weeks

at or below 40°F (4°C)

In the freezerFreezer

Not recommended

texture or safety suffers

Quick answer

Yes. Romaine lettuce lasts 1–2 weeks in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.

How to tell if romaine lettuce 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.

Romaine lettuce past the expiration date

Best-by and sell-by

FoodKeeper gives unopened romaine lettuce 1–2 weeks 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.

Past the date

Romaine lettuce past its best-by date is usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.

How to keep romaine lettuce fresh longer

Store dry, wrapped in a paper towel inside a bag or container.
Keep in the crisper drawer at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Stand herbs like cilantro and parsley in a glass of water in the fridge, loosely covered.