Produce

How long do bell peppers last in the fridge?

4–14 days
Fridge, from purchase — USDA FoodKeeper guidance for peppers

Peppers run 4–14 days in the fridge — that’s a wide window because a firm glossy pepper sits at the top of it and a softening one is nearly done, so cook that one first.

How long does it keep?

Fridge, from purchase 4–14 days
Freezer, from purchase 6–8 months

Can you freeze peppers? YES, FREEZE IT

Can it sit out?

Bell peppers is perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.

Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).

The 2-hour rule, in full →

How to tell if bell peppers has gone bad

  • Skin dimpling and wrinkling under a thumb
  • Soft brown patches, usually where it rested on the shelf
  • Core and seeds gone dark and damp inside
  • White mold ringing the stem

When in doubt, throw it out.

Peppers freeze raw in strips with no blanching — they go from the freezer straight into a hot pan.

Quick answers

How long do bell peppers last in the fridge?

Peppers run 4–14 days in the fridge — that’s a wide window because a firm glossy pepper sits at the top of it and a softening one is nearly done, so cook that one first.

Can you freeze bell peppers?

Peppers are the rare vegetable that needs no blanching — chop, bag, freeze, and they hold 6–8 months.

How long can bell peppers sit out?

The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to bell peppers. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).