How Long Food Lasts

Produce / Fresh Vegetables

How long does basil last?

Quick answer

Basil (fresh) keeps 10 days in the fridge.

Form

Fridge

From purchase

10days

Freezer

Can be frozen: yes

-

Pantry

5days

Mine has been in the fridge for

Refreeze after thawing in the fridge?

United States
Yes
United Kingdom
Only after cooking

How long does basil last in the fridge?

  • Fresh10 daysFrom purchase

Your fridge should be set between 0 and 5°C.

Refrigerators should be set to maintain a temperature of 40 °F or below.

Can you freeze basil?

Yes.

How to defrost basil safely

  1. In the fridge
  2. In cold water, cook it straight after defrosting
  3. In the microwave, cook it straight after defrosting
  4. Cook it from frozen

You should defrost your food in the fridge so that it doesn’t get too warm

It’s also important to use food within 24 hours after it’s been fully defrosted

There are three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave.

Check the water frequently to be sure it stays cold. Change the water every 30 minutes. After thawing, cook immediately.

It is safe to cook foods from the frozen state. The cooking will take approximately 50% longer than the recommended time for fully thawed or fresh meat and poultry.

Can you refreeze basil?

  • In the United KingdomOnly after cooking
  • In the United StatesYes

You can freeze food again once cooked, but you’ll only be able to reheat it once after that

Food thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen without cooking, although there may be some loss of quality.

Foods thawed by the cold water method should be cooked before refreezing.

After cooking raw foods which were previously frozen, it is safe to freeze the cooked foods.

Can basil be kept out of the fridge?

  • Dried12 months
  • Fresh5 days

All forms at a glance

FormFridgeFreezerPantry
Dried--12 months
Fresh10 days-5 days
General guidance---

Frequently asked questions

How long does basil last in the fridge?

Fresh: 10 days.

Can you freeze basil?

Yes.

Can you refreeze basil?

In the United Kingdom: Only after cooking; In the United States: Yes.

Sources

We always show the most cautious time among official sources. Last checked: 1 October 2026.