How do you know if Celery has gone bad?

Celery has likely gone bad if you notice white or brown patches, mould; sour or off smell; limp, rubbery, or slimy stalks. When in doubt, throw it out.

How long can Celery sit out before it goes bad?

Celery should not be left out more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F / 32°C). Refrigerate promptly.

How Long Does Celery Last?

Q: How long does Celery last in the fridge?

Celery lasts 2–4 weeks in the refrigerator. Wrap celery tightly in foil so ethylene gas can escape while moisture stays in; this keeps the stalks crisp far longer than the plastic bag.

Celery keeps 2–4 weeks in the refrigerator, according to cited USDA/FDA storage references.

2 cited USDA/FDA/FSIS sources
Editorial review · Verified June 2026

2–4 weeks

Safe range

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Based on USDA/FSIS guidance:

Cut vegetables are perishable — refrigerate within 2 hours and use within a few days for best quality and safety.

The cited storage data lists 2–4 weeks refrigerated for this food. Source

Limp celery can be revived in cold water; discard stalks that are slimy or smell sour.

How to tell if it's gone bad

Look:White or brown patches, mould
Smell:Sour or off smell
Texture:Limp, rubbery, or slimy stalks

When in doubt, throw it out. If Celery smells, looks, or feels off — discard it. Food poisoning is not worth the risk.

How to store Celery

Keep Celery covered in the refrigerator. Use the refrigerator duration shown above for this food state.

Storage tips

Wrap celery tightly in foil so ethylene gas can escape while moisture stays in; this keeps the stalks crisp far longer than the plastic bag.

Is it still good?

Enter when you bought or opened it and where it's stored.

Common questions

How long can Celery sit out before it goes bad?: Celery should not be left out more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F / 32°C). Refrigerate promptly.

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