We all know that chicken and most dairy products belong in the refrigerator. But there are a few foods that you’ve most likely been storing wrong all along.
1. Watermelon
Although after cutting, watermelons should be kept in the fridge, beforehand they are perfectly fine sitting on the counter. The USDA even suggests that the watermelons retain more antioxidants this way. Just remember to wrap them after you cut them as when you put them in the fridge they will absorb the tastes of other food.
This sweet next in line is nearly inedible when left in the fridge.
2. Honey
If you like your honey syrupy, smooth, and slick then you probably shouldn’t put it in the fridge. When cold, honey will crystalize and can eventually become as hard as a rock. The granules will seize together and become not good for anyone who doesn’t want a thick, white piece of honey chunk.
Honey is a great flavoring, but this next food is a beauty all on its own.
3. Coffee
The best way to store coffee is in an airtight container at room temperature. When it is chilled, it can lose its flavor and even build up condensation that can ruin coffee grounds. Humidity is no good for coffee grounds or beans.
It’s a good think the next food doesn’t go in the fridge!
4. Pumpkin
When stored in the fridge, pumpkins will gather moisture that will cause them to rot. It’s important that pumpkins do stay cool but it is also crucial that they stay dry as well. So, whip out a piece of cardboard (as a rug may get ruined and cement gathers moisture) and sit your pumpkin in the basement or kitchen.
The next item is often stored wrongfully in the fridge.
5. Onions
Before cutting onions, leave them out in the warmth of the room. When they get cold, they tend to get mushy and unappealing. Not to mention, the humidity speeds up the aging process. After they are cut, however, they do need kept in the fridge or they will dry out. But it’s important you put them in a plastic baggie and into the vegetable drawer where they belong.
Number 6 does ‘nut’ belong in the fridge at all!
6. Nutella
This much-loved and publicized treat should never go in the refrigerator. If you do store it there, it will become a lot less spreadable and will lose much of its chocolate flavor. So keep it sealed in the pantry and you can revel in creamy chocolaty goodness. Now, that’s something to smile about.
The next item may surprise you, but the
7. Olive Oil
Did you know that olive oil likes the dark? Did you know that’s one of the reasons why it’s often purchased in a dark jar or bottle? While the fridge is dark most of the time, the coldness may cause it to solidify. For extra virgin olive oil, refrigeration can actually affect the flavor of the oil, and you definitely don’t want that.
Another wrongly stored item is next.
re’s a good reason.
8. Herbs
Many people assume herbs should be kept in the fridge in order for them to last longer. But this is simply not true. For one, herbs need to stay dry and when refrigerated, they collect moisture. So for best results, snip off the bottom of the fresh herbs and stick them in a jar of water.
This next food is stored in the fridge the majority of the time.
9. Tomatoes
Yes! Tomatoes are not meant to be stored in the fridge. When you do this, you’re actually killing the poor thing. Not only will it lose its flavor, but it will break down the molecules and leave it grainy. Ripen tomatoes in windowsills for best results and eat them while they are fresh.
Did somebody say tomato? Click next to see!
