Citrus fruits, such as oranges and mandarins, are delicious and nutritious fruits that can lose their freshness if they are not chosen and stored correctly. To enjoy their flavour and benefits to the fullest, it is important to know how to select the best pieces and store them properly. Here are some practical tips on how to keep your citrus fruits fresh for longer.
How to choose the best citrus fruits
To ensure that your oranges and mandarins are fresh and juicy, pay attention to these aspects:
- Weight and firmness: A citrus fruit that is heavy in relation to its size indicates a high juice content.
- Uniform shell: Avoid fruit with bruises, blemishes or soft spots. The skin should be smooth and without cracks.
- Fresh aroma: Ripe citrus fruits give off an intense citrus aroma, which is an indication of their freshness.
Where and how to preserve citrus fruits
Proper storage is key to prolonging the shelf life of citrus fruits. Here are some recommendations:
1. Store at room temperature
If you plan to consume the oranges or mandarins within a few days, store them in a fruit bowl at room temperature. Make sure they are in a cool, ventilated place, away from direct sunlight.
2. Cooling for durability
To prolong their freshness, store citrus fruits in the refrigerator. Place them in the fruit drawer without bagging them, as lack of ventilation can lead to moisture and cause them to deteriorate faster.
3. Avoid excessive humidity
If you notice that the skin of citrus fruits is damp, dry them with a cloth before storing them. Moisture can encourage mould and accelerate spoilage.
4. Do not store them together with other fruits
Citrus fruits release ethylene, a gas that accelerates the ripening of other fruits and can cause them to deteriorate faster. Keep them separate from apples, bananas and pears.
Extra tips to preserve freshness
- Freezing: If you have a lot of oranges or mandarins and will not consume them soon, you can squeeze them and freeze the juice in ice cube trays for later use.
- Avoid using plastic: Storing citrus fruit in plastic bags can trap moisture and lead to mould growth.
By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, juicy citrus fruit for longer, making the most of its flavour and health benefits.
