With the heat tightening and the stalls of the season -filled markets, keeping the oranges well can make all the difference. After all, no one wants to cut a dry orange when looking for a dose of freshness and juice. There is a simple trick that avoids this scenario, according to a citrus expert.
According to Cassie Howard, senior director of Marketing and Category Management of Sunkist, quoted by the Lifestyle website, the secret is in the way the fruit is packaged right after purchase. And no, leaving them forgotten on the kitchen fruit fruit tree is not the best strategy.
Far from light and heat: the golden rule
The expert recommends that oranges be kept at room temperature, but always away from direct sunlight. The ideal, according to the same source, is to choose a cool, dark and dry place. Oranges “prefer a fresh and dark atmosphere,” says Cassie Howard.
In addition, it should avoid places with large fluctuations in temperature or excessive moisture. A ventilated cabinet, a basket in a cooler corner of the house or even a fruit box are good options for those who want to prolong freshness without using the fridge.
Fridge? Yes, but in moderation
Despite the ambient temperature recommendation, it is also possible to conserve oranges in the cold, especially on warmer days or if they are not consumed immediately. In this case, the expert suggests that they are kept in the lower drawer of the fridge, suitable for fruits and vegetables.
According to the same source, cold temperatures help slow down the maturity process and maintain the texture sumarea for longer. However, it should be remembered that excessive cold can affect the natural taste and sweetness of the fruit.
What should not do
Avoid storing oranges in closed bags or hermetic containers. Lack of air circulation can accelerate rot, especially if there is any damaged parts. Nor is it advisable to wash them before keeping, as extra moisture may favor the appearance of mold.
If you want to wash them, do it only at the time of consumption. And before cutting them, make sure they are dry and clean, especially if they have been in contact with other fruits.
How to know if they are still good
Even well maintained, oranges have a limited time of freshness. If you notice that the shell starts to become too rijo, with dark spots or softened areas, it is time to consume them quickly or use in juices and desserts.
In the refrigerator, they can stand up to three weeks without losing quality, according to the Sunkist brand recommendation. Outside the fridge, the deadline is shorter: about a week, depending on the conditions of the storage site.
A simple gesture that avoids waste
Correctly keeping oranges is more than a matter of taste: it is also a way to avoid food waste and save money. With minor changes in daily habits, it is possible to ensure fresher fruit for longer, and with much more juice.
The next time you buy a bag of oranges, remember: light and heat are the main enemies. And the fridge can be an ally, if you know how to use it.
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