Yes, garlic does expire, but how long it lasts depends on whether it's a whole head, individual cloves, or minced.
Garlic Shelf Life: A Breakdown
Here's a general guideline for garlic's shelf life, assuming proper storage:
- Whole Garlic Heads: When stored at a cool room temperature with good ventilation, whole garlic heads can last up to six months.
- Individual Cloves: Once you separate cloves from the bulb, their shelf life decreases. Intact cloves (with the papery skin) typically last around 3 weeks.
- Peeled or Minced Garlic: Peeled or minced garlic spoils much faster. It should be stored in the refrigerator and typically lasts for about 1 week. It's best to use peeled/minced garlic quickly for optimal flavor.
Factors Affecting Garlic's Shelf Life:
Several factors can impact how long your garlic remains fresh:
- Storage Conditions: Cool, dry, and well-ventilated environments are ideal. Avoid storing garlic in the refrigerator (unless it's already peeled/minced) or in airtight containers, as this can promote mold growth.
- Variety: Some garlic varieties naturally have a longer shelf life than others.
- Quality at Purchase: Start with firm, heavy bulbs with no signs of sprouting, soft spots, or mold.
Recognizing Spoiled Garlic:
Signs of spoiled garlic include:
- Soft Spots: The bulb or cloves feel soft and mushy.
- Sprouting: Green shoots emerging from the cloves. While sprouted garlic isn't necessarily unsafe to eat, the flavor may be bitter.
- Mold: Visible mold growth, especially on the surface of the bulb or cloves.
- Discoloration: Yellowing or browning of the cloves.
- Strong, Unpleasant Odor: A significantly different or stronger odor than fresh garlic.
If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the garlic.
