Everything is better stored in the refrigerator, right? Wrong! Many foods require refrigeration, but others are best kept at room temperature.
Most product labels will explain storage recommendations. Be sure to check them, especially when buying something for the first time. The standard condiments (mayonnaise, ketchup and mustard) need refrigeration, as do condiments that contain dairy. Common condiments that don’t require refrigeration include soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, honey and hot sauce.
While many products come with storage instructions, fresh fruits and vegetables usually don’t! This (short!) list of fruits and vegetables should not be refrigerated:
- Onions
- Potatoes
- Winter Squash (butternut and acorn)
- Sweet Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Bananas
- Persimmons
Everything else, from asparagus to watermelon, belongs in the refrigerator. With space at a premium, it’s convenient to use the installed produce bins, but be careful! Out of sight can be out of mind, and the last thing you want is for your carefully selected fruits and vegetables to spoil. Plan meals to include your produce, and check on it often to use at its best.
Did you know people in Europe do not refrigerate eggs? However, due to how US eggs are prepared for sale, it is best to keep them in the refrigerator. Some recipes call for room temperature eggs, which is safe for up to two hours. Dairy products, also, should always be refrigerated, although butter can be left on the counter for up to two days!
Bread items do not belong in the refrigerator and should be stored in a closed plastic bag. So, what if you won’t be able to use the entire loaf before it goes bad? Freeze it! Bread products can be successfully frozen. Just thaw as needed.
Storing meat in the refrigerator is not surprising. The question is, how long to safely refrigerate or freeze? According to Healthline.com:
- Cooked poultry, meat and fist can be refrigerated for three to four days and kept in the freezer for two to six months.
- Uncooked poultry can be refrigerated for one to two days and kept in the freezer for nine months (if in pieces) or one year (if whole).
- Uncooked ground meat can be refrigerated for one to two days and kept in the freezer for three to four months.
- Uncooked beef and pork can be refrigerated for one to two days and kept in the freezer for four to twelve months.
- Uncooked fish can be refrigerated for one to two days and kept in the freezer for six months.
While unopened cans are shelf stable, once opened they are not! Leftover food should be refrigerated in a covered container, but never in the original open can. Another tip: Don’t overcrowd the refrigerator! It is important to allow air flow to store foods at the right temperature.
Properly storing your food will keep it fresh – and safe – longer.
