The Only Way You Should Store Cut Pineapple, According to Del Monte

There are few things juicier than a ripe pineapple. The sweet and tender fruit just oozes tart, tropical freshness, slice after slice. Sometimes my husband and I will chomp our way through an entire pineapple that we cut, and sometimes we’ll take a shortcut and buy convenient pre-cut chunks.

I already know to store the whole pineapple on the counter in a cool, dark place. Whole pineapples are already ripe, so you don’t have to wait for them to ripen further or be unsure if they’re ready to eat. (Looking at you, avocado.)

What about when you have cut pineapple? That’s when the rules about how to store it change, say the experts at Del Monte.

How To Properly Store Cut Pineapple

“The best way to store cut pineapple is in an airtight container in the fridge,” says Nuno Baptista Miranda, Senior Brand Manager for Del Monte Fresh Produce. It doesn’t matter if you choose glass or plastic, but look for something with a good seal. “It keeps the pineapple fresh longer as it prevents exposure to air, maintains moisture, and prevents smell transfer,” Baptista Miranda says.

If you only need to keep your pineapple fresh for a day or two, then you can toss your chunks into a plastic bag. “Zip-top bags minimize air exposure and could be an option for short-term storage,” Baptista Miranda adds.  

Why Refrigerating Pineapple Is Important

You should always refrigerate chunks or slices of pineapple for ideal freshness and the longest shelf life. “The best spot in the fridge is in the fruit and veggie drawer, and it’s best to not place the fruit in the same area as meat,” Baptista Miranda says.

If stored correctly in an airtight container, cut pineapple should last up to one week.

If there’s some reason you can’t finish your cut pineapple within that time, then consider freezing it. Place chunks or slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze, then transfer the pieces into a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen pineapple overnight in the fridge.

Keep in mind that pineapple can lose some of its crispness after being frozen, so these pieces are a great option for the blender (no need to thaw!) for smoothies. Or, you can use them for baking or marinades.