Storing food in the refrigerator is a common practice, but did you know that some foods actually fare better outside of it? Certain items can lose their flavor, texture, or even spoil faster when refrigerated. Let's dive into the details and discover which foods should be kept out of the fridge and why.
Potatoes and sweet potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place, but not in the refrigerator. The cold temperature converts their starch into sugar more quickly, leading to a gritty texture and an overly sweet taste. According to the University of Idaho Extension, storing potatoes at temperatures below 50°F can cause them to develop a sweet taste and darken when cooked.
Bananas are tropical fruits that thrive in warm environments. Refrigeration slows down the ripening process and can cause the skin to turn black. For optimal ripening, keep bananas at room temperature. Once they reach your desired ripeness, you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life, but expect the peel to darken.
Onions stored in the fridge can become soft and moldy due to the moisture. They are best kept in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. The National Onion Association recommends storing onions in a mesh bag or basket to allow for proper air circulation.
Honey should be stored at room temperature. Refrigeration can cause it to crystallize and become difficult to use. According to the National Honey Board, honey has a long shelf life and does not need to be refrigerated.
Whole melons, such as watermelon and cantaloupe, should be stored at room temperature to maintain their flavor. Once cut, they should be wrapped in plastic and refrigerated. The USDA states that whole melons can be stored at room temperature for up to a week.
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes can lose their flavor and develop spots on the peel when refrigerated. They are best kept at room temperature. According to the Citrus Research and Education Center, storing citrus fruits at room temperature can help maintain their quality for up to a week.
Avocados are usually sold unripe and need to be kept at room temperature to ripen. Refrigeration slows down the ripening process. Once ripe, they can be stored in the fridge to extend their shelf life.
Pears, like avocados, are often sold unripe and need to ripen at room temperature. Refrigeration can slow down this process significantly. Once ripe, they can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
Olive oil can solidify and become cloudy when refrigerated, making it difficult to use. It is best stored in a cool, dark place. According to the North American Olive Oil Association, olive oil should be kept at a temperature between 57°F and 70°F.
Garlic stored in the fridge can sprout and become rubbery. It is best kept in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources recommends storing garlic at room temperature in a well-ventilated container.
Coffee beans and ground coffee should not be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. The moisture can affect the flavor. Instead, keep coffee in an airtight container at room temperature. The National Coffee Association advises storing coffee in a cool, dark place.
Tomatoes lose their flavor and become mealy when refrigerated. They are best kept at room temperature and consumed within a few days. According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, refrigeration can cause tomatoes to lose their natural sugars and acids.
Basil absorbs odors from other foods in the fridge and wilts quickly. It is best stored like a bouquet of flowers, in a glass of water at room temperature. The Herb Society of America suggests covering the basil with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Pickled vegetables do not need refrigeration due to their high acidity, which prevents bacterial growth. They can be stored in a cool, dark place. According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, properly sealed pickles can last for up to a year at room temperature.
Chocolate can develop a white film called "bloom" when refrigerated, which affects its texture and taste. It is best stored in a cool, dry place. The International Cocoa Organization recommends storing chocolate at a temperature between 60°F and 70°F.
Apples can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated. According to the University of Illinois Extension, apples stored in the fridge can last for several months.
Cheeses with strong odors can be stored in a cool place outside the fridge. A marble slab in the kitchen can work well. Ensure they are wrapped in an airtight container to prevent the smell from spreading.
Bread stored in the fridge can become stale faster due to the cold temperature. It is best kept at room temperature in a bread box or a paper bag. According to the Institute of Food Technologists, refrigeration speeds up the staling process of bread.
Ketchup and mustard contain natural preservatives like vinegar and salt, which inhibit bacterial growth. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a month after opening. The USDA states that these condiments do not require refrigeration for short-term storage.
Carrots can become limp and lose their flavor when refrigerated. They are best stored in a cool, dark place. According to the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, carrots should be kept in a perforated plastic bag in a cool, dark place.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your food stays fresh and flavorful, whether it's stored in the fridge or at room temperature.
