Unveiling the Facts About Storing Oranges
When it comes to storing food, particularly fresh produce, it can be challenging to know the best approach. Different fruits have different storage needs – some, like berries and grapes, need refrigeration, while others, like bananas and tomatoes, are better off at room temperature. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, fall somewhere in between. To shed light on the optimal storage methods for oranges, we consulted experts in the field.
Introducing Our Experts:
– Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, a sports dietitian based in Orlando, Florida
– Jacqueline Gomes, RD, MBA, a registered dietitian and author of the 52 Weekly Healthy Habits Tracker
Should Oranges Be Refrigerated?
The decision on whether to refrigerate oranges largely depends on your consumption timeline. If you plan to enjoy them within a few days, both experts advise that storing them at room temperature is perfectly acceptable. Tara Collingwood explains, “You don’t need to refrigerate oranges immediately. If you intend to consume them within a week, keeping them on the counter is ideal. They tend to have a sweeter taste at room temperature.”
However, if your intention is to preserve oranges for a longer period, around two to three weeks or even up to a month, refrigeration is recommended. Storing them in the fridge helps slow down the ripening process, maintaining their freshness for an extended duration. Jacqueline Gomes adds, “Refrigerating oranges helps prevent moisture loss and preserves their texture and flavor. Since oranges are typically harvested at their peak ripeness, additional ripening is usually unnecessary. Keeping them cold is essential for maintaining their freshness.”
How to Store Oranges
For short-term storage of oranges at room temperature, ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Tara Collingwood suggests using a fruit bowl or open basket that allows for proper air circulation.
When refrigerating oranges, Collingwood recommends placing them in the crisper drawer inside a vented bag or a well-ventilated container to prevent mold growth. Gomes advises against pre-washing oranges, as it accelerates spoilage. Instead, wash them just before consumption to remove any dirt, pesticides, or bacteria present on the skin.
Whether stored on the counter or in the refrigerator, it’s important to keep oranges separate from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas. Additionally, store them away from potatoes, as the latter release moisture that can cause oranges to mold quicker.
Storage Duration for Oranges
At room temperature, oranges can last a few days, with some varieties staying fresh for up to a week. In the fridge, oranges stored in the crisper drawer can maintain their quality for up to a month. Collingwood emphasizes that refrigeration slows down the ripening process, prolonging the shelf life of oranges.
Once oranges are sliced or peeled, they should be consumed promptly to maintain their freshness.
Oranges should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container and should be consumed within 2 to 3 days, according to Gomes. If you’re unsure whether your oranges are still good to eat, Collingwood and Gomes suggest watching out for specific signs of spoilage. These include noticing any soft, squishy, or mushy areas on the fruit, as well as dark spots or discoloration. Additionally, a wrinkled skin may indicate that the orange is beginning to dry out, while the presence of mold – whether white, green, or blue – is a clear sign of spoilage. Be wary of oranges that are leaking juice or emit a sour or unpleasant smell. For more information, you can refer to the original article on Better Homes & Gardens.
