The preservation methods for different fruits vary, and putting all of them in the refrigerator might cause them to spoil faster. So, should fruit be refrigerated to keep it fresh? Here is a comprehensive introduction to the best ways to preserve various common fruits. Come and take a look.
Principles of Fruit Preservation
Most tropical fruits are sensitive to cold and should not be refrigerated. Chilled fruit not only has its nutrients destroyed but also spoils easily. In a few more days, the pulp will rot.
For fruits with a very short shelf life that may spoil within a day, a cooling method should be used. For lychees, dissolve about 10 grams of salt in a basin of water, soak them for a while, then let them dry. Place them in a special fruit preservation bag, put them in the freezer below zero, and then thaw them naturally at room temperature.
The suitable storage temperature and shelf life of each fruit are different, while the general storage temperature of a refrigerator is 3-6°C. If this temperature is not the optimal one, it will shorten their shelf life.
For fruits that spoil easily when exposed to air, a method of keeping them in a cool place and in a preservation bag should be used.
Certain fruits produce ethylene during storage, which has a ripening effect. For example, apples, pears, and bananas should be stored separately from other fruits to avoid accelerating their ripening and aging, which affects their quality.
So, specifically, how should common fruits be best preserved?
Common Fruit Preservation Methods
Papaya: First, wrap the papaya in newspaper and store it in a cool place. This way, the papaya can be stored for a long time while remaining fresh.
Red Globe Grapes: Red Globe grapes are deep red in color and have a consistent shape. Originating from the United States and Chile, they are different from common grapes in their dark red color. They are uniform in size, sold in whole clusters without loose berries, and feel firm to the touch. They have a crisp, sweet taste with a fibrous texture. When squeezed, the skin and flesh of common grapes separate easily, but the skin of Red Globe grapes is thinner and clings tightly to the flesh, allowing it to be stored for a longer time. Under normal conditions without any special treatment, they can be preserved for about 15 days.
Lychee: Lychees should not actually be stored in the fresh-keeping compartment; it's best to store them in the freezer at a sub-zero temperature. After taking them out, let them thaw naturally, as this is the only way to effectively preserve their color, aroma, and flavor.
Valencia Orange: This orange is larger in size and originates from the United States and Australia. Its skin is rougher and not as smooth as a navel orange. It tastes juicy, crisp, and sweet, but the fibers are coarser and not as delicate as in a navel orange. Under normal conditions, it can be preserved for more than 30 days.
Banana: Place the banana in a preservation bag, squeeze out the air, and then store it in a cool place. Here, a friendly reminder from this popular food guide: never put bananas in the refrigerator.
The above are the various fruit preservation methods introduced for everyone, and I hope they are helpful to you.