Keeping Peppers Fresh

• The shelf life of fresh peppers depends on the temperature and humidity at which they are stored. Green peppers, which are not as ripe, tend to last longer than their yellow and red counterparts. Refrigerated peppers will last up to a week in the refrigerator. The ideal environment for peppers is approximately 45 degrees Fahrenheit, with relatively high humidity to prevent moisture loss.

From Fresh to Frozen

• Freezing peppers will keep them fresh until they're needed. Before freezing them, wash the peppers, remove their stems and slice them them. For sweet peppers, remove the seeds and membranes and chop them into strips. Freeze chopped peppers on a tray before transferring them to an airtight storage bag. Frozen peppers should last up to eight months. They'll still be edible after that, but their flavor and texture may not be as good.

Picking Pickled Peppers

• By storing peppers in an acidic solution, pickling prevents the growth of bacteria. Pickled peppers have a shelf life well beyond fresh or frozen peppers. An unopened jar of pickled peppers will last for around one to two years in the pantry, while an opened jar will survive around the same length of time in the refrigerator. Some manufacturers suggest an open jar will only last around four to six months while still retaining its full quality.

When Good Peppers Go Bad

• Spotting fresh peppers that are no longer at their best is relatively straightforward. As peppers lose their freshness, their skins will begin to wrinkle. Fresh peppers should be smooth and firm to the touch, while peppers that have begun to spoil will have soft spots. Peppers are more likely to spoil quickly if stored alongside vegetables or fruits that release ethylene gas, such as apples, apricots and some types of melon.