Final answer:
Freshly squeezed orange juice should be consumed within 2 to 3 days when refrigerated to ensure optimal taste, quality, and safety. Refrigeration and sealed containers help maintain freshness longer, but any signs of spoilage require immediate disposal of the juice.
Step-by-step explanation:
Freshly squeezed orange juice is best consumed within 2 to 3 days when stored in the refrigerator. Beyond this period, the juice may lose its flavor and nutritional value and potentially become unsafe to drink. The limited shelf life of fresh orange juice is due to its lack of pasteurization and preservatives, allowing for the rapid growth of bacteria and yeast, especially when stored at room temperature. Once squeezed, orange juice is exposed to air, and oxidation begins, which affects the taste and quality.
Refrigeration slows down the degradation process, and keeping the juice in a sealed container minimizes oxidation. Furthermore, signs of spoilage, such as off-odor, odd flavor, or the presence of mold, indicate that the juice should be discarded immediately. Lind's experiment mentioned above, which indicates the rapid consumption of fresh citrus fruits, implies the necessity to consume fresh juices shortly after preparation to gain the optimal health benefits and to avoid spoilage.