How Long Does Dried Fruit Last?
Dehydrated fruits including raisins, cranberries, apricots, dates, figs, and mixed dried fruit.
The Short Answer
Dried Fruit lasts 180–365 days in the refrigerator when stored properly at 40°F or below. For longer storage, dried fruit can be frozen for 12–24 months while maintaining good quality. At room temperature in the pantry, expect 120–365 days under normal conditions. These times are based on USDA food safety guidelines and assume proper storage conditions.
Storage Times at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 26, 2026 | Our methodology
White spots on dried fruit are almost always sugar crystallization, not mold. Sugar naturally migrates to the surface during storage. It is harmless. Mold on dried fruit is typically fuzzy and colored (green, black, or blue), not white and powdery.
How to Store Dried Fruit
Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container or resealable bag. Squeeze out air to prevent the fruit from drying out further or absorbing moisture. Refrigeration extends freshness, especially in humid climates. Dried fruit that has hardened can often be rehydrated by soaking in warm water for 15-30 minutes.
How to Tell if Dried Fruit Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that dried fruit has spoiled: mold, fermented or alcoholic smell, extremely hard and crystallized texture, insect activity, white sugar crystals on the surface (this is often normal sugar bloom, not mold)
The Professor's rule: When in doubt, throw it out. No meal is worth food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Properly stored dried fruit stays safe for 180–365 days in the fridge. Always store in airtight containers, refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase or preparation, and trust your senses. If something looks, smells, or feels off, discard it regardless of how many days it has been. Freezing is always an option if you will not use it within the refrigerator window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually no. White spots on dried fruit are typically crystallized sugar that has migrated to the surface. This is called sugar bloom and is completely harmless. Mold appears as fuzzy patches, often green or black. If it is powdery and white, it is almost certainly sugar.