5 Foods That Don’t Last in the Fridge

10 September, 2024

A Selection of Tropical Fruits

Fruits such as lychees, bananas, and mangoes are popular choices during the summer months, with many people stocking up and storing them in the fridge, believing the cooler temperature will keep them fresher for longer.

However, these fruits are not suited to such cold conditions and prefer a warmer, drier environment. When placed in the fridge, the skins of bananas, lychees, and mangoes can turn black, and their flavor can be diminished. It is best to keep these fruits in a cool, well-ventilated space or buy smaller quantities to be consumed on the day of purchase.

Dried Herbal Teas

Dried herbal teas, such as jujube red dates and floral teas, are prone to molding if stored in the fridge. The moisture in the fridge can encourage mold, and the strong aromas of other foods can also affect the delicate flavors of these herbal blends. It is best to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Bread and Buns

Bread and buns can last longer in a cool environment, but placing them in the fridge will cause the starch in the bread to crystallize, resulting in a dry and hardened texture, and a loss of flavor. If you wish to keep bread and buns for an extended period, it is best to wrap them securely and store them in the freezer compartment of your refrigerator.

Coffee and Tea

Coffee and tea are also not suitable for refrigeration. Storing them in the fridge can reduce their flavor and may even encourage molding. Keep them in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and they will retain their quality.

Onions and Garlic

When buying onions and garlic in bulk, it may be tempting to store them in the fridge to prolong their lifespan. However, the moisture in the fridge can destroy the cell structure of these bulbs, causing them to spoil faster. Additionally, their strong odors can affect other foods. It is best to store onions and garlic in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

Certain foods don’t last long in the fridge and should be consumed quickly or stored differently. These include honeydew melon, which lasts 3-4 days, grapes (about a week), spinach (3-4 days), mushrooms (3-4 days), and fresh berries (3-4 days).

Each of these foods has specific characteristics that cause them to spoil quickly. For instance, honeydew melon has a high water content, making it susceptible to bacteria and mold growth. Grapes are delicate and can quickly absorb odors and flavors from other foods. Spinach and mushrooms are prone to bacterial growth and spoilage, while fresh berries quickly develop mold due to their high moisture content.

To extend the shelf life of these foods, consider alternative storage methods. For instance, cut honeydew melon can be wrapped tightly and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Grapes can be washed, dried, and stored in a sealed container in the fridge, or even frozen. Spinach and mushrooms benefit from being stored in paper bags or containers that allow airflow. Fresh berries can be washed, dried, and stored in airtight containers, and you can also freeze them for later use.

Yes, there are some telltale signs of spoilage for each of these foods. For honeydew melon, check for mold or a slimy texture. Grapes may become wrinkled and dry, indicating they’re past their prime. Spinach will start to wilt and develop a slimy coating, while mushrooms will become slimy and change color. Fresh berries will show signs of mold, and the berries may become soft and mushy.