Orange Juice
The answer
Opened refrigerated orange juice lasts 7–10 days in the fridge.
Caution Fresh-squeezed, unpasteurized juice is shorter — 2–3 days — and risky for children, pregnant people, and the immunocompromised.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 7–10 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 3–4 months best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard if it smells sour or boozy, fizzes, or the container bulges.
The answer
Unopened refrigerated OJ is good until its printed date; shelf-stable cartons keep in the pantry until dated.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) Printed date safe window
Freezer (0°F) 3–4 months best quality
Pantry Shelf-stable only, printed date OK stored right
Discard Discard bulging or fizzing containers without tasting.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Refrigerated carton, opened 7–10 days 3–4 months
Fresh-squeezed, unpasteurized 2–3 days 3–4 months
Shelf-stable, opened 7–10 days —
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Sour or alcoholic smell
✕ Fizzing or bulging container
✕ Mold at the spout
FAQ
Why does old orange juice taste fizzy?
It has begun fermenting — yeast is converting sugars to alcohol and gas. Discard it.