FRUIT - Many fruits and vegetables should only be stored at room temperatures. Refrigeration can cause cold damage or prevent them from ripening to good flavor and texture. For example, pink tomatoes ripen to a better taste and red color if they are left at room temperature. In the refrigerator, they do not turn red, and even red tomatoes kept in the refrigerator lose their flavor.

• Apples (fewer than 7 days)
• Bananas
• Citrus fruits
• Mangoes
• Melons
• Papayas
• Persimmons
• Pineapple
• Plantain
• Pomegranates

Ripen these fruits on counter first then refrigate up to 3 days prior to use. Ripening fruit in a bowl or paper bag can be enhanced by placing an apple with the fruit to be ripened.

• Avocado
• Kiwi
• Nectarines
• Peaches
• Pears
• Plums
• Plumcots

VEGETABLES

• Basil (in water)
• Cucumber†
• Eggplant†
• Garlic*
• Ginger
• Jicama
• Onions*
• Peppers†
• Potatoes*
• Pumpkins
• Sweet Potatoes*

Keep away from direct sunlight.

*Store garlic, onions, potatoes, and sweet potatoes in a well-ventilated area in the pantry.

†Cucumbers, eggplant, and peppers can be refrigerated for 1-3 days if they are used soon after removing from the refrigerator.

For information on how to store other fruits and vegetables go to FruitsAndVeggiesMoreMatters.org

Source: UC Davis Postharvest Technology