To keep food safe and fresh, we typically store everything in the refrigerator.
The low temperature prevents spoilage and extends the shelf life of many foods.
However, certain fruits should not be refrigerated as it can adversely affect their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
While refrigeration is beneficial for many foods, it’s important to know which fruits fare better when stored at room temperature to preserve their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
Here’s a list of fruits that should be kept at room temperature instead of storing in a refrigerator.
1. Bananas
Bananas should never be stored in the refrigerator. When refrigerated, their peels start turning black, which can deter many people, especially children, from eating them. Additionally, refrigerated bananas do not ripen quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to store them at room temperature for optimal freshness and taste.
2. Watermelon
Many people make the mistake of keeping watermelon in the refrigerator to prevent it from spoiling quickly. However, by doing this, the antioxidants present in it are reduced, and its nutritional value also diminishes. This is why experts recommend not to store watermelon in the refrigerator.
3. Papaya
Storing papaya in the refrigerator may cause changes in its taste and texture. This occurs because the refrigerator’s low temperature slows down the ripening process of papaya. Therefore, avoid storing papaya in the refrigerator until it is fully ripe.
4. Litchis
People often buy litchis in bulk and store them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. However, this only maintains the appearance of freshness on the peel, while the litchis may spoil internally. Therefore, it’s advisable not to refrigerate litchis. The best method is to store them in water to keep them fresh for a longer period.
5. Pineapple
Storing pineapple in the refrigerator can lead to a deterioration in its texture and taste. Therefore, it’s best not to refrigerate it. Refrigeration causes the fruit to become too soft, altering its natural flavour profile. Storing pineapple at room temperature helps maintain its freshness and prevents unwanted changes in its characteristics. However, if the pineapple is fully ripe, it can be refrigerated for a few days to prevent it from becoming too soft.
6. Mango
Do not make the mistake of storing mangoes in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can slow down their ripening process and affect their taste and texture. Refrigeration can also cause chilling injury, leading to the development of dark spots or uneven ripening. It’s best to store mangoes at room temperature to enjoy their full flavour and juiciness.
7. Avocado
Avocados should not be stored in the fridge as the cold temperature can slow down their ripening process and cause them to harden. It may also affect their flavour and texture. Instead, store avocados at room temperature until they ripen, then use them promptly to enjoy their creamy consistency.
8. Oranges
Oranges can become dry and lose their juiciness on keeping them in the fridge. Storing them at room temperature helps maintain their flavour and freshness. Plus, refrigeration can diminish their taste, making them less enjoyable to eat.