How Should Grapefruit Juice Be Stored?

Keeping grapefruit juice fresh means paying attention to how it's stored almost as much as how it's made. Both store-bought and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice are best when handled thoughtfully, so every glass stays bright and safe to drink.

Why Refrigeration Matters for Grapefruit Juice

Citrus juices are naturally perishable, especially those without added preservatives. Heat and light can rapidly degrade both the flavor and the nutritional quality of grapefruit juice. Refrigeration is the single most important step for keeping things fresh and safe.

Best Practices for Storing Grapefruit Juice

Always store grapefruit juice in the refrigerator at or below 4°C (39°F).
Transfer freshly squeezed juice to a clean, airtight glass or food-safe plastic container to minimize air exposure.
Keep the container away from direct light to avoid color and flavor loss.
If your juice is store-bought and comes in a carton, keep it tightly closed after opening.
Label homemade juice with the date and use it within 2–3 days for maximum freshness.

How Long Does Grapefruit Juice Last?

Unopened, pasteurized store-bought grapefruit juice can last until the listed expiration date if kept refrigerated. Once opened, it's best to use within a week. For freshly squeezed juice, aim to drink it within 48–72 hours—its flavors and nutrients are most vibrant in that window.

fresh grapefruit juice in a small glass bottle in a fridge

Can You Freeze Grapefruit Juice?

Freezing grapefruit juice is an option if you want to keep it longer, but some flavor and texture changes are likely after thawing. Pour juice into freezer-safe containers, leaving about 10% room for expansion, and seal tightly. Frozen juice can last up to three months; thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before use.

Use ice cube trays for smaller quantities—perfect for cocktails and recipes.
Always write the freeze date on your containers—fresher always tastes better.

Tips to Preserve Freshness

Use clean utensils and containers to avoid contamination.
Fill containers nearly to the top to limit air exposure and slow oxidation.
Avoid returning unused juice to the main container—pour what you need.

Storing grapefruit juice properly keeps its tart, refreshing flavor at its peak and reduces waste. With just a few extra steps, the reward is a glass that tastes far closer to fresh-picked fruit.