How to Store Pineapple So It Stays Fresh Longer, Whether It’s Whole, Cut, or Canned

From its majestic leafy crown to its refreshing tropical flavor, pineapple makes a luxurious addition to the fruit rotation. While you probably know the more mainstream golden pineapple, the fruit comes in various sizes and colors—including the low-acidity Elephante pineapple (white flesh) and Pinkglow pineapple (pink flesh), the rare Rubyglow pineapple (a red-skinned variety that can cost up to $400), and serving-sized baby pineapples that are perfect for gifting or display.

Whether you have a pricey rarity or a not-yet-ripe beauty, what is the best way to store a pineapple to ensure it is juicy and sweet? We asked Robert Schueller, produce expert and director of public relations for Melissa’s Produce, to weigh in on best practices for pineapple storage.

How to Store Whole Unripe Pineapple

“Always, always store unripe pineapple on the kitchen counter in a cool, dry place,” says Schueller. He explains that unripe pineapple should never go in the refrigerator, as it will never truly ripen there. The exception is if you have fruit that you don’t plan to consume immediately: A pineapple can be refrigerated in its unripe state for up to 14 days, but it then should be allowed to ripen fully at room temperature (though Schueller doesn’t recommend this as the optimal way to consume the fruit).

How long pineapple takes to ripen: You can expect a pineapple to ripen on the counter in about 3 to 5 days. From there, you can consume it directly—though Schueller recommends refrigerating it for a few hours before serving, as many people find chilled fruit to be especially refreshing.

How to Store Whole Ripe Pineapple

Once ripe, the whole pineapple will last 3 to 5 days at room temperature. You can extend its life by storing the ripe fruit in the refrigerator for up to a week. Don't stash it in the crisper drawer; instead, place it on a shelf in the fridge. Schueller recommends spinning off the green leaves at the top of the fruit to maximize storage space—simply grab the leaves firmly and twist.

Is Your Pineapple Past Its Peak?

You can tell that a pineapple has passed its prime if the skin is brownish with soft or moldy spots. It’s safe to cut around brown spots to salvage the rest of the fruit, as pineapple is hardy and doesn’t go bad all at once. Use your judgment, and toss if there is a sickly, rotten smell.

How to Store Cut Pineapple

Once ripe, a pineapple can be cut into rings or chunks and stored in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container, such as a Tupperware or a resealable plastic bag.

How long cut pineapple lasts: Chunks or rings will last up to 5 days

Freezing Cut Pineapple

Schueller recommends freezing pineapple in 1-inch chunks, which are ideal to throw in smoothies or thaw and drain for a fruit salad. Place them in a freezer bag and be sure to flatten out the bag when storing so you don’t get a big chunk of pineapple frozen together, says Schueller. He does not recommend freezing whole pineapple, with or without the skin.

How long frozen pineapple lasts: Frozen chunks will last up to 6 months.

How to Store Canned Pineapple

According to Schueller, fresh is always best when it comes to the taste and texture of pineapple. But canned pineapple can be a replacement in a pinch and is suitable for recipes, such as stir-fries, marinades, or baked goods.

High-acid canned goods like pineapple should be transferred to an airtight glass or plastic container after opening.

How long canned pineapple lasts after opening: Once transferred to another container, canned pineapple can be stored in the fridge for 5 to 7 days.