Many people tend to refrigerate a wide variety of foods out of habit, but there are actually several items that should not be stored in the fridge, as doing so can negatively impact their flavor, texture, or shelf life.
1. Tomatoes: Refrigerating tomatoes can turn them mealy and reduce their flavor. It’s best to store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and use them within a few days for optimal taste.
2. Potatoes: Cold temperatures can cause potatoes to develop a sweet taste and alter their texture. They should be kept in a cool, dark place in a paper bag or perforated bin, away from onions, which can cause them to spoil faster.
3. Bread: Refrigerating bread can make it stale more quickly due to the moisture in the fridge. Store bread at room temperature or freeze it if you want it to last longer.
4. Garlic: Garlic should not be refrigerated, as it can sprout and develop a bitter flavor. It’s best stored in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.
5. Onions: Similar to garlic, onions should not be kept in the fridge. They do best in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated spot. Refrigeration can make them soft and moldy more quickly.
6. Honey: Honey never spoils, but refrigerating it can cause it to crystallize. Keep it in a sealed container at room temperature to maintain its smooth consistency.
7. Avocados: If not yet ripe, avocados should be stored at room temperature. Refrigerating them before they ripen slows down the ripening process and can make them mushy once they do ripen.
8. Cucumbers: The cold temperature of a fridge can cause cucumbers to become soft and lose their crisp texture. Store them in a cool place but not in the fridge.
By understanding which foods to store outside of the fridge, you can improve their quality, extend their shelf life, and reduce food waste.