Foods that should not be stored in the refrigerator

Refrigeration is one of the best ways to keep food in good condition. Even more so in a tropical climate, where we tend to store most groceries in the refrigerator.

Although it is something that we are used to doing, there are certain foods that deteriorate more with the cold. Sometimes they lose their flavor, nutrients or their firmness if they are exposed to low temperatures.

What are the foods that we should not keep in the refrigerator?

• Chocolate. Most people think that if chocolate is not refrigerated it can melt. While this is true, the cold in the refrigerator causes a white coating to form on the chocolate and change its flavor. Ideally, store it at room temperature but away from light to prevent it from melting.
• Tomatoes. Although tomatoes last longer under refrigeration, their flavor, aroma and texture are affected by it. On the contrary, at room temperature, the tomato fully ripens and its flavor is enhanced.

• Pan. Many people think that bread lasts longer when it is refrigerated, but what happens is that it loses its flavor and hardens. This food can be stored at room temperature, in a cool, dry place.
• Garlic and onions. These foods lose their properties if they are subjected to low temperatures. The garlic tends to cake and the onion hardens. Garlic and onions should ideally be stored in a dark, cool place, such as a bag or cupboard.
• Melon and watermelon. These fruits are usually stored in the refrigerator, even more so during the hot season. If the melon and watermelon have not been opened, they can remain outdoors. If they have already been opened, you can cover the fruits with aluminum foil before putting them in the refrigerator.

• Guineo. Due to the rapid maturation of the banana, many people choose to put it in the refrigerator to preserve it. However, this is a tropical fruit that does not benefit from the cold, so it will lose its flavor and nutrients. This also applies to fruits such as mango, pineapple and kiwi.
• Honey. This sweet food loses its nutrients if it spends a long time under refrigeration. Honey stays in good condition at room temperature, without direct sunlight, as that can spoil it.
• Papas. Potatoes are very durable foods. If they are stored in a dark and cool place they can last up to a couple of months. On the contrary, if they are subjected to the cold of the refrigerator they tend to sweeten and discolor.
• Eggs. The problem with eggs is that they are affected by drastic temperature changes. Because of this, people often store them in the refrigerator until they need to be used. An ideal place for eggs is cool and with a constant temperature outdoors. (I)