How to Store Fresh Fruits: Expert Tips to Keep Your Fruits Fresh Longer

Nothing is more disappointing than buying fresh, delicious fruits only to have them spoil quickly. With the right storage techniques, you can extend the life of your fruits and reduce waste while enjoying them at their peak freshness!

Understanding Ethylene Gas

Some fruits produce ethylene gas as they ripen, which can speed up the ripening of other fruits nearby. Knowing which fruits produce ethylene and which are sensitive to it is key to proper storage.

High Ethylene Producers:

Apples, bananas, mangoes, peaches, pears, and tomatoes

Ethylene Sensitive:

Berries, grapes, oranges, and watermelon

Storage Tips by Fruit Type

Apples

Storage: Refrigerator
Duration: 4-6 weeks
Tips: Store in the crisper drawer away from vegetables. Keep them in a plastic bag with holes for air circulation. One bad apple really does spoil the bunch, so check regularly and remove any damaged ones.

Mangoes

Unripe: Room temperature until soft
Ripe: Refrigerator for 5-7 days
Tips: Place unripe mangoes in a paper bag to speed ripening. Once ripe, refrigerate to slow down the process. Never refrigerate unripe mangoes as it affects their flavor.

Oranges and Citrus

Storage: Room temperature for 1 week, refrigerator for 2-3 weeks
Tips: Keep citrus fruits in a mesh bag or bowl with good air circulation. They can be stored at room temperature for short periods but last longer when refrigerated.

Pomegranates (Anar)

Storage: Room temperature for 1 week, refrigerator for 2 months
Tips: Whole pomegranates store exceptionally well. Once opened, store the arils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Grapes

Storage: Refrigerator
Duration: 1-2 weeks
Tips: Don't wash grapes until you're ready to eat them. Store them in their original packaging or a perforated plastic bag in the crisper drawer.

Bananas

Storage: Room temperature
Tips: Keep bananas separate from other fruits. Wrap the stems in plastic wrap to slow ripening. Once ripe, you can refrigerate them—the peel will darken but the fruit inside stays fresh.

General Storage Guidelines

Room Temperature Fruits:

Bananas, mangoes (unripe), citrus (short-term), pomegranates, melons (whole)

Refrigerator Fruits:

Apples, berries, grapes, cut fruits, ripe mangoes, citrus (long-term)

Pro Storage Tips

• Don't wash before storing: Moisture promotes mold growth. Wash fruits just before eating.
• Use the crisper drawer: It maintains optimal humidity for fruits.
• Separate ethylene producers: Keep high ethylene fruits away from sensitive ones.
• Check regularly: Remove any spoiled fruits immediately to prevent spreading.
• Store cut fruits properly: Use airtight containers and consume within 2-3 days.

Freezing Fruits

Many fruits can be frozen for long-term storage! Berries, mango chunks, and banana slices freeze beautifully. Wash, dry, and freeze in a single layer before transferring to freezer bags.

Signs Your Fruit Has Gone Bad

Look for mold, unusual odors, excessive softness, or discoloration. When in doubt, throw it out!

Buy fresh, high-quality fruits from our store and use these tips to enjoy them longer!