BDRunner, Sept 11:-
Many people buy fruits from the market and put them straight in the freezer. They believe that this will keep the fruit fresh and prevent it from spoiling.
However, a report published on Real Simple.com explains that this rule does not apply to all fruits, as noted by US-based chefs and nutritionists.
Especially some ‘climacteric’ fruits.
This is called a fruit in Bengali that has reached a stage of maturity. That is, fruits that ripen or become more mature for a few days after being picked from the tree.
In such fruits, the ripening process continues even after being picked from the tree due to respiration and the release of ethylene gas. As a result, this process is stopped or disrupted if kept in the freezer. Due to which the taste, smell, and texture of the fruit can be spoiled.
What is meant by ‘climacteric’ fruit
These types of fruits continue to ripen for a few more days after being picked from the tree through chemical changes.
The cold weather of the refrigerator stops that process. Due to which the natural sweetness, aroma, and juiciness of the fruit are reduced.
Sometimes the texture becomes soft or rubbery, which is not pleasant to eat.
US-based chef and nutritionist Jane La Roca explains which fruits should not be kept in the refrigerator and why.
Bananas
Jane La Roca says, “Cold temperatures stop the ripening process of bananas abruptly. As a result, the texture becomes rubbery and the taste becomes pale.”
That is why bananas should always be kept at normal room temperature. The purpose of the banana hanging stands available in the market is to facilitate keeping them at room temperature.
Peaches
Peaches, palms, and nectarines—all three of these fruits are included in the category of ‘stone fruits’ or fibrous fruits.
“These fruits need to ripen at room temperature to reach their juicy and flavorful state,” says La Roca. “If you refrigerate them, they become dry and dull. And the flavor is also very muted.”
Palm
This fruit also behaves like a peach. You should wash them well when you get them home and leave them in a basket until they soften. Only then will you get the right flavor.
Nectarines
Nectarines, which are considered the peach’s cousins, also don’t need to be refrigerated. They ripen well at room temperature. However, if you cut them and use them in salads, they should be refrigerated in an airtight container and eaten within two to three days.
Avocado
Finding the perfect avocado at the supermarket is like winning a battle.
“If the avocado isn’t fully ripe, it should be kept at room temperature. Once it softens, it’s ideal to eat right away.”
However, if the avocado becomes too soft, it can be kept in the refrigerator for a couple of days. This will keep it edible for a little longer.
Tropical Fruits
Pineapple, mango, kiwi—These tropical fruits are best kept at room temperature.
“Keeping these fruits in the refrigerator interrupts their ripening process, which makes them mushy and juiceless,” says Newman. “However, once cut, they should be refrigerated. Make sure the cut fruit is in an airtight container.”
Tomatoes
Surprisingly, yes, tomatoes are actually a fruit. However, they are known as a vegetable.
“When you refrigerate them, the skin of the tomato hardens. And the juicy flavor is lost,” says Newman.
“Cold air destroys the structure of the tomato. It becomes grainy and mushy. Especially in dishes like salads, the fresh flavor or taste of tomatoes is important. That’s why it’s wise to keep these fruits at room temperature.”
When can you refrigerate the above fruits?
Once they are fully ripe or after being cut, they can be refrigerated for a couple of days. However, they are not suitable for long-term storage.Even if frozen, some fruits can have a sour taste. They can lose their texture and juiciness.
