Ginger juice is a flavorful and healthy drink made by grating fresh ginger root and straining out the pulp. It adds a pleasant spicy kick to many recipes and beverages. But like other fresh juices, ginger juice doesn’t keep forever. So does ginger juice go bad in the fridge and how long does it last?
Does ginger juice go bad?
Yes, ginger juice does eventually go bad, even when stored in the refrigerator. This is because ginger juice, like other fresh vegetable and fruit juices, contains natural enzymes and nutrients that can cause it to deteriorate over time.
Exposure to air and microbes can also cause ginger juice to spoil. When properly stored, ginger juice will maintain peak freshness and flavor for 5-7 days in the refrigerator.
How to tell if ginger juice has gone bad
Here are some signs that ginger juice has spoiled and is no longer safe to consume:
- Unpleasant sour, bitter, or “off” aroma
- Cloudy appearance instead of clear, pale yellow color
- Carbonation – small bubbles visible
- Mold growth
- Slimy texture instead of smooth and pulpy
Ginger juice that displays any of these characteristics should be discarded. Consuming spoiled ginger juice can potentially cause foodborne illness.
How long does ginger juice last in the fridge?
Properly stored, ginger juice will keep well for 5 to 7 days when refrigerated.
To maximize freshness and shelf life:
- Wash ginger root thoroughly before juicing
- Use a clean juicer or grater and storage container
- Juice fresh ginger immediately before use
- Refrigerate ginger juice promptly after juicing
- Store ginger juice in an airtight container
With proper refrigeration, fresh ginger juice will maintain optimal taste and potency for about a week. It’s best to use refrigerated ginger juice within 5-7 days.
Does ginger juice freeze well?
Freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of fresh ginger juice. Frozen properly, ginger juice can keep for 4-6 months in the freezer.
To freeze ginger juice:
- Juice fresh ginger and let cool completely
- Pour ginger juice into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays
- Leave 1⁄2 inch headspace to allow for expansion
- Seal containers and freeze immediately
- For easy use, transfer ginger juice cubes to freezer bags once frozen
Frozen ginger juice may lose some freshness but retains all its nutritional benefits. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
How to store ginger juice properly
Follow these tips for best storage and maximum shelf life of fresh ginger juice:
- Wash ginger thoroughly before juicing
- Use clean equipment and containers
- Juice ginger right before using
- Refrigerate ginger juice in a tightly sealed container immediately
- Store ginger juice toward the back of the fridge where temperature is coldest
- Keep refrigerated ginger juice for no more than 5-7 days
- Check frequently for signs of spoilage
- Freeze for long-term storage up to 4-6 months
Proper storage helps ginger juice retain its freshness, flavor, color and nutrients.
How to revive ginger juice
If your ginger juice has been in the fridge for over a week but has not shown signs of spoilage, there are some methods you can try to revive it:
- Stirring – Ginger juice can separate in the fridge. Stirring will recombine the liquid.
- Straining – Pour ginger juice through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any bits of pulp that may have degraded.
- Heating – Warm ginger juice gently to a simmer (do not boil), then cool and refrigerate again. This can refresh the flavor.
- Freezing – Freezing ginger juice resets the clock. Thaw completely in the fridge before using.
If ginger juice smells or tastes unpleasant in any way, it’s best not to take risks and discard it.
Uses for ginger juice
Ginger juice adds a spicy, citrusy bite to both sweet and savory recipes. Here are some popular uses:
- Mix into smoothies, juices, lemonade, cocktails
- Stir into dressings, marinades, sauces, soups
- Drizzle over fish, chicken, vegetables
- Blend into baked goods like cookies, cakes, muffins
- Sweeten with honey or sugar and drink straight
- Use for ginger shots, wellness tonics, teas
Ginger juice can replace grated ginger in most recipes. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Its potency makes a little go a long way.
Benefits of ginger juice
Drinking ginger juice provides these valuable health benefits:
- High in antioxidants that fight inflammation and cell damage
- May ease nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, and other GI issues
- Helps reduce pain from arthritis, sore muscles, cramps
- May lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease risk
- Stimulates circulation and immune system function
- Provides vitamins C, B6, magnesium, potassium
The bioactive compounds in fresh ginger juice make it a highly nutritious functional food as well as a tasty, versatile ingredient.
Conclusion
Ginger juice is a refreshing, spicy and healthy drink that adds great flavor to recipes. Properly stored in the fridge, ginger juice will keep for 5-7 days. Check frequently for signs of spoilage like off-aromas, cloudiness, and mold. For long term storage, freeze ginger juice in airtight containers. Frozen ginger juice can keep for 4-6 months. Enjoy ginger juice within a week or freeze it for later to get the most out of this fresh and flavorful juice.
