How to Keep Fresh Fruit from Spoiling Too Quickly in the Summer?

Summer is a season of abundance – bursting with flavorful strawberries, juicy peaches, and fragrant berries everywhere you look. Unfortunately, high temperatures can cause fruit to spoil quickly. So how can you keep it fresh longer? Here are a few proven tips to help you enjoy summer fruit at its best.

1. Choose wisely at the store

Start by carefully inspecting the fruit – avoid anything bruised, moldy, or starting to rot. Even one bad fruit can accelerate spoilage in the rest. Pay attention to ripeness – some fruits are better bought slightly underripe and left to ripen at room temperature.

2. Store according to the fruit’s needs

Not all fruits like the cold. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries should go straight into the fridge (preferably in a dry, breathable container). Bananas, peaches, apricots, and nectarines ripen better at room temperature – only refrigerate them once ripe to slow down spoilage.

3. Avoid moisture

Moisture is the enemy of fresh fruit. Don’t wash fruit before refrigerating – do that just before eating. If you must wash ahead of time, make sure to dry thoroughly with a paper towel.

4. Don’t mix different fruits

Some fruits, like apples and pears, release ethylene gas – which speeds up the ripening (and spoiling) of others. Store them separately from more delicate varieties. By following these simple rules, you can enjoy your summer fruit for longer – fresh, juicy, and full of vitamins.