Have you noticed that oranges kept in a basket at room temperature start drying out soon? For this reason, and not only, it is better to keep them in the refrigerator.
Unlike avocados, oranges do not ripen if kept next to other fruits but dry out instead. If whitish or grey marks appear on the surface of an orange and its texture turns soft, these signs indicate that it is no longer good for consumption.
Refrigerated oranges remain juicy and fresh longer
Oranges maintain their freshness and delicious juice if kept in the refrigerator until consumption. When stored at room temperature, they remain fresh for up to 7 days, but you can keep them in the fridge for up to 3-4 weeks, and they will have the same delicious and refreshing taste.
Other tips to keep in mind to keep the citrus fresh, especially oranges, tangerines, and clementines
Wash citrus fruits only before serving; to prevent moulding, it is important to keep them dry.
Do not stack oranges on top of each other in a container.
Do not place oranges in the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is much lower, as they may freeze and spoil.
Do not keep oranges in a plastic bag, as plastic wrapping attracts moisture and causes molding.
Do not buy more oranges than what you can eat – it is better to run to the store and buy some more, than to throw away uneaten and spoiled fruit.
Do not store a cut orange, as its taste will not be the same in a few hours.
Bananas also last longer if you store them in the fridge
It is true that bananas can ripen if kept at room temperature, but if you have bought too much and you do not want them to end up in the trash spoiled, store them in the fridge along with the oranges. In this way, you will extend their “lifespan” by up to a week.
Even if the banana peels continue to darken, the pulp will remain fresh.
Other fruits that should be kept in the refrigerator to prevent them spoil quickly are strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
Peaches, kiwis, mangoes, and apples may be kept at room temperature until they fully ripen, but then they should be put in the fridge to stay fresh longer.