Refrigerator preservation error 4 types of food is not suitable for refrigerator preservation
It's common to store leftovers in the fridge, thinking it keeps food safe and fresh. However, not all foods are suitable for refrigeration. In fact, some items can actually suffer from improper storage, leading to loss of flavor, texture, or even spoilage. Here’s a closer look at what you should avoid putting in the fridge and why.
1. Fruits
Many fruits, especially tropical ones like mangoes, persimmons, and bananas, don’t do well in cold temperatures. The low temperature can cause them to lose their aroma and develop a mealy texture. Berries, in particular, are prone to mold when stored in the fridge. Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons also shouldn’t be refrigerated, as the cold can cause the oils on their skin to seep into the flesh, making it bitter.
2. Vegetables
Some vegetables, like cucumbers and bell peppers, can suffer from “cold injury†when kept in the fridge for too long. This leads to discoloration, softening, and an off-odor. Cucumbers may also grow hair-like strands. Leafy greens should be stored in the crisper drawer at 0–4°C, and it’s best to keep them dry and not wash them before storing.
3. Meat
Fish and seafood should not be left in the fridge for too long. Most home refrigerators only reach -15°C, while fish needs to be stored at -30°C or lower. If kept too long, the fish tissue can dehydrate or change, affecting its quality. Squid, for example, can become rancid if stored for extended periods, making it unsafe to eat.
4. Snacks
Chocolate and mooncakes are not ideal for refrigeration. When chocolate is taken out of the fridge, it can form a layer of frost, which makes it more likely to mold and lose its original taste. Mooncakes, made with flour, oil, sugar, and nuts, can become hard and stale when stored in the fridge due to starch retrogradation. Baked goods should also be kept at room temperature to maintain their texture and flavor.
5. Hot Foods
Putting hot food directly into the fridge can increase energy consumption and affect the temperature of other items inside. It’s better to let hot dishes cool down first before placing them in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips:
1. Keep your fridge clean and organized regularly. 2. Store raw and cooked foods separately, using containers or wraps to prevent cross-contamination. 3. When taking food out of the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature before reheating. Make sure to heat it thoroughly for at least 15 minutes. 4. Avoid keeping food in the fridge for too long. For long-term storage, use the freezer instead.
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