The way tomatoes are stored at home can directly influence the time to spoil. Common in the Mediterranean diet, this fruit is sensitive to variations in temperature and moisture. Choosing the right place to keep it can make the difference between fresh tomatoes for several days or a quick food affected by mold and pasty texture.
The most frequent question is whether or not tomatoes should be stored in the fridge. The answer depends on the state of maturation. According to the University of California, through its Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources), tomatoes should remain out of the cold while they are still maturing. Low temperatures interrupt this process and alter texture and taste, making them flurry.
For still firm tomatoes and maturing, the best option is to keep them at room temperature, between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius, away from the direct light of the sun and the heat sources like the stove. A ventilated fruit tree or a town -up wooden box are recommended options. Tomatoes must be separated from each other, with the peduncle (the “stem” part) turned down, which helps to reduce the loss of moisture.
According to the same source, prolonged contact with moist surfaces or proximity to other fruits such as bananas or apples can accelerate the degradation of tomatoes, as these fruits release ethylene, a gas that speeds up ripening.
In the refrigerator, only in specific cases
If tomatoes are ripe and not consumed within the next two or three days, they can be placed in the fridge, but with precautions. They should be stored in the vegetable drawer, inside a perforated paper bag or ventilation container, to minimize condensation and the risk of mold.
When taken from the cold, tomatoes should rest at room temperature for at least one hour before they are consumed. This time allows them to recover part of the aroma and texture, although the loss of flavor is generally irreversible, as the University of California indicates.
Common errors to avoid
A habitual mistake is to store the still damp tomatoes after washing them. Superficial humidity, coupled with the absence of ventilation, is one of the main factors that promote the appearance of mold. The ideal is to wash them only before consuming them. Another misconception is to stack them, which causes pressure points and accelerates rotting.
Nor is it advisable to store tomatoes in closed plastic bags, as this environment favors the accumulation of moisture and the proliferation of fungi.
The role of the variety also counts
Cherry or chucha tomatoes tend to have greater mold resistance and loss of firmness than larger and more mature varieties. However, the proper storage rule applies to all categories.
Maintaining taste and firmness for more days is possible
Briefly, according to the tomatoes, the tomatoes should be kept out of the fridge until they are mature, in a dry, fresh and good ventilation place. Only after reaching the ideal point of consumption and if they are not used immediately, they should be refrigerated. Even in this case, it is recommended to consume them as soon as possible to avoid flavor changes.
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