Avoid wasting food with these kale storage tips.

Kale is super good for you, and its chock-full of nutrients.

How Long Does Kale Last When Stored Properly?

top view of kale leaves in a blue bowl

Photo:Claudia Totir/Getty Images

Kale tends to have a short shelf-life if not stored properly.

That’s why storing kale in the refrigerator or freezer is best for keeping kale at its optimal quality.

Here’s a breakdown of how long kale lasts when left at room temperature, refrigerated, or frozen.

Look for bright, deeply colored kale with springy leaves.

Steer clear of slimy, wilting bunches, and run from kale with black spots.

Doing so can cause premature spoilage.

Chopped Kale

Cutting kale before washing it can help remove some of the bitterness.

If chopping your produce before storing it is part of your meal-prepping process, here’s what to do.

Bagged Kale

Pre-packaged kale has already been chopped and washed, making the storing process extra easy.

Just keep the kale in the sealed bag until you’re ready to use it.

Lining the bags with a paper towel can also help absorb any excess moisture.

Then, place the bag in the crisper drawer of your fridge.

How to Freeze Kale

The ultimate hack for storing kale is to freeze it.

Freezing chopped kale is more efficient than freezing whole kale.

If you want to thaw yourfrozen kale, simply transfer it to your refrigerator overnight.

You’ll have just-like-fresh kale available for your week’s meals.

you might also add kale to your morning green smoothie, hummus, juices, and pestos.

Here are some other ways to use this nutritious leafy green: