All About Mangoes
Your complete guide to mangoes - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Mangoes Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for mangoes in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
ripe in refrigerator (whole)5-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive wrinkling, very soft/mushy texture, significant dark spots or patches, mold growth, sour or fermented smell.
How to Check
Check the skin for a dull appearance, excessive wrinkling, or dark spots. Gently press; it should still yield slightly but not be mushy. Any sour or off-smell indicates spoilage.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration slows down the ripening process. Store in the crisper drawer for best results.
cut in refrigerator3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Discoloration (darkening, browning, or dullness), slimy texture, white/green mold growth, off-smell (sour, fermented, musty).
How to Check
Observe the color of the flesh; it should be vibrant. If it's darkened, slimy, or has visible mold, discard it. Smell for a sweet, tropical aroma; if it smells sour, alcoholic, or unpleasant, it's spoiled.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container to prevent drying out and absorption of other food odors. Ensure minimal air exposure.
frozen (cut)6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (large dry, discolored patches), excessive ice crystals (beyond normal frost), or an off-smell (uncommon if properly stored, but indicates degradation).
How to Check
Visually inspect for large areas of freezer burn or unusual discoloration. While texture changes are normal after thawing (softer), it should not be mushy or slimy. If thawed, smell for any off-odors.
Storage Tips
Peel, pit, and cut mango into desired chunks or slices. For best results, spread pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This prevents clumping. Label with the date.
unripe at room temperature3-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Wrinkled skin (before ripening), dark or shriveled patches, very soft spots, mold growth, sour or fermented smell.
How to Check
Look for any visible mold, significant discoloration, or shriveling. Gently press the skin; it should feel firm but gradually soften as it ripens. If it's mushy or has a strong, off-putting smell (sour, alcoholic), it's likely spoiled.
Storage Tips
Store on the kitchen counter, away from direct sunlight. To speed up ripening, place in a paper bag with an apple or banana.
ripe at room temperature1-2 days
Signs of Spoilage
Deeply wrinkled or shriveled skin, very soft/mushy texture, large dark spots, mold, strong sour or fermented smell.
How to Check
Visually inspect for extensive wrinkling, bruising, or mold. Touch the mango – if it's excessively soft or mushy, it's overripe. Smell for any sour, alcoholic, or unpleasant odors instead of a sweet, fruity aroma.
Storage Tips
Consume quickly or move to the refrigerator to extend freshness.