The danger of storing this in the refrigerator: a common habit that can affect your health

Why Refrigerating Tomatoes Is a Problem

Tomatoes are packed with nutrients, flavor, and natural sweetness—but storing them in the fridge can compromise all three. Here’s why:

1. Loss of Flavor and Aroma
   Cold temperatures can dull the natural sugars and acids in tomatoes, leaving them tasteless or mealy. The subtle aroma that makes a tomato so appealing is also diminished.
2. Texture Changes
   Refrigeration can break down the cell walls in tomatoes, causing them to become mushy or mealy, especially in ripe fruit.
3. Nutrient Degradation
   Certain antioxidants, including lycopene—a key component that gives tomatoes their red color and health benefits—can degrade more quickly in cold storage.

What to Do Instead

• Store at Room Temperature: Keep tomatoes on the counter, away from direct sunlight. They continue to ripen naturally and retain their flavor.
• Use a Cool, Dry Spot for Ripe Tomatoes: Once fully ripe, you can extend their shelf life slightly by placing them in a shaded, cool area—but avoid the fridge if possible.
• Separate from Ethylene-Sensitive Fruits: Tomatoes release ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening. Keep them away from fruits like bananas or cucumbers if you don’t want them to overripen too quickly.

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