Is it okay to keep bottled orange juice at room temperature?

It is generally recommended to store bottled orange juice in a cool, dark place at a temperature below 45°F (7°C) to maintain its freshness and quality. Keeping bottled orange juice at room temperature for extended periods can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and accelerated spoilage.

When exposed to room temperature, the natural vitamins, flavor compounds and aromas in orange juice begin to degrade. This can affect its taste, nutritional content, and overall quality. In addition, exposure to light can cause the juice to lose its beneficial nutrients and develop an off-flavor.

To preserve the shelf life and quality of bottled orange juice, it is best to refrigerate it as soon as possible after purchase and keep it chilled until consumption. If you plan to consume the juice within a few hours, it might be acceptable to leave it at room temperature, but for any extended periods, refrigeration is strongly advised.