New Delhi: Fresh mushrooms are loved for their earthy flavour, delicate texture, and ability to elevate almost any dish from creamy pastas and stir-fries to hearty soups and salads. However, mushrooms are also one of the most delicate vegetables in the kitchen. Their high moisture content and porous texture make them prone to becoming slimy or spoiled if they are not stored properly.

The good news is that with a few simple storage techniques, you can keep mushrooms fresh in the refrigerator for a much longer time. Proper storage not only preserves their flavour and texture but also prevents unnecessary food waste. Whether you buy button mushrooms, cremini, or shiitake, understanding how to store them correctly can help you enjoy their freshness for up to a week or even longer.

Why do mushrooms spoil quickly?

Mushrooms are made up of nearly 90 per cent water. This means they easily absorb moisture from their surroundings, which can lead to sogginess and bacterial growth. Storing them in airtight plastic containers or leaving them exposed to excess humidity can accelerate spoilage.

Another reason mushrooms spoil quickly is poor air circulation. Mushrooms need a breathable environment that allows excess moisture to escape while still keeping them cool.

How to keep mushrooms fresh

Choose fresh mushrooms first

Proper storage begins right at the grocery store. Always choose mushrooms that look firm, smooth, and dry. Avoid packs that appear wet, slimy, or discoloured.

Fresh mushrooms should have a mild, earthy smell. If they smell sour or overly strong, it may indicate that they are already beginning to spoil.

Store mushrooms in a paper bag

One of the best ways to store mushrooms is by placing them in a paper bag in the refrigerator. Paper bags absorb excess moisture while still allowing air to circulate.

Simply transfer loose mushrooms or store-bought mushrooms into a clean paper bag and keep them in the main compartment of the refrigerator. This method helps prevent the buildup of moisture that causes sliminess.

Keep them in the original packaging

If your mushrooms come in a supermarket container with a plastic wrap that has small holes, you can keep them in that packaging.

These containers are often designed to maintain the right balance of humidity and airflow. However, if the packaging becomes damp, it is best to move the mushrooms to a paper bag.

Avoid washing before storing

Many people wash mushrooms immediately after buying them, but this can reduce their shelf life. Mushrooms absorb water quickly, and excess moisture can cause them to spoil faster.

Instead, store mushrooms unwashed. Clean them only when you are ready to cook by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or rinsing quickly under water.

Keep mushrooms away from strong-smelling foods

Mushrooms easily absorb odours from nearby foods because of their porous texture. Storing them close to foods like onions, garlic, or strong cheeses can alter their flavour.

To maintain their natural taste, store mushrooms in a separate section of the refrigerator or inside a paper bag.

Use a paper towel trick

Another effective method is placing a dry paper towel inside the container or bag with the mushrooms. The paper towel absorbs excess moisture that may accumulate in the refrigerator.

If the towel becomes damp after a few days, replace it with a fresh one to continue keeping the mushrooms dry.

Do not freeze fresh mushrooms directly

Freezing raw mushrooms is not recommended because their texture becomes mushy after thawing. If you want to freeze them, it is better to cook them first by sautéing lightly and then storing them in airtight freezer containers.

Cooked mushrooms can last in the freezer for up to two months while maintaining better flavour and texture.

Check mushrooms regularly

Even with proper storage, mushrooms should be checked every few days. Remove any mushrooms that show signs of spoilage, such as sliminess, dark spots, or a strong smell.

Keeping the rest of the mushrooms dry and well-ventilated will help extend their freshness.

How long do mushrooms last in the fridge

When stored correctly, fresh mushrooms can last about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. In some cases, especially when stored in a paper bag with proper ventilation, they may stay fresh for up to 10 days.

Mushrooms may be delicate, but storing them properly can make a significant difference in how long they stay fresh.