Tips

What Vegetables Shouldn’t Be Stored in the Fridge?

"There are certain vegetables and other food groups that you should avoid storing in the refrigerator to ensure that their nutritional value remains intact. Join us as we explore a few of these foods that are best kept out of the fridge!"

Administrator

22 July, 2024

Tomatoes

Storing tomatoes in the fridge is a common mistake made by many. While it may extend their shelf life, it also diminishes their flavor and nutritional value. Tomatoes thrive in warmer climates, so it’s best to keep them in a dry, shaded place.

Potatoes

When storing potatoes, it’s important to remember that temperatures below 7°C can cause the starch in potatoes to convert to sugar. This will alter their shape, taste, and quality, potentially affecting your health.

Garlic

Science has proven that garlic does not fare well in cold environments. Storing garlic in the fridge can lead to a loss of nutrients. Instead, keep garlic in a dry and cool place.

Onions

Onions are another vegetable that does not belong in the fridge. The cold, damp environment with limited air circulation can cause onions to rot, sprout, and spoil, rendering them unusable.

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We hope that with this knowledge, you’ll become a smarter home cook and master the art of proper food storage.

Frequently asked questions

Not all vegetables are meant to be stored in the fridge. Potatoes, onions, garlic, winter squash, pumpkins, tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplant are among the veggies that should be kept out of the fridge. Some fruits like citrus fruits, melons, bananas, and tropical fruits are also better stored at room temperature.

Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place instead of the fridge. Storing them in the fridge can turn their starch into sugar, affecting their texture and flavor when cooked.

Onions and garlic, like potatoes, are best stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Storing them in the fridge can make them soft and moldy.

Tomatoes lose their flavor and texture when refrigerated. It is best to keep them at room temperature and only refrigerate them if they are overripe to extend their shelf life.

Yes, most leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, kale, and herbs, as well as mushrooms, peas, beans, corn, and asparagus, are best stored in the fridge to maintain their freshness and crispness.