Why Don’t You Refrigerate Tomatoes

Refrigerating tomatoes will help preserve their tomatoes, but at the same time, it is bound to strip away the vibrant flavor of the tomatoes and alter their texture. While it is also a smart way of keeping them fresh, it will ruin their tempting and irresistible qualities.

Read through this guide if you want to know why this exactly happens. For the time being, let us take a deep dive into the science and explore why keeping the vibrant tomatoes out of the chilly confines of the fridge is a better idea.

Also, read: Best And Easy Ways To Store Cut Tomatoes

How Does Cold Temperature Affect Tomatoes?

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Tomatoes are generally advised to be kept out of the fridge as the cold temperatures affect the tomatoes. The temperature inside the fridge disrupts the delicate balance of the compounds, which in turn are known to contribute to their characteristics, taste, and aroma.

If tomatoes are kept below 54 degrees Fahrenheit, then the cold temperature interferes with the compounds that are present in the tomatoes and robs them of their rich, sweet flavor.

After a considerable period, if they are returned to room temperature, the chilling effects stay back and those tomatoes become less flavorful than those that are stored at optimal temperatures.

The exposure of tomatoes to cold temperatures leads to alteration in genes along with the metabolic process that is crucial for producing the compounds that are responsible for the fruit’s taste.

But if you’re eager to know how long do tomatoes last in the fridge, then this guide is for you.

Why Is Refrigeration Detrimental To Tomatoes?

Refrigeration has certain detrimental effects on the flavor and texture of tomatoes.

Here’s why it is harmful:

Genetic Changes

The chill inside the fridge alters the genetic expression responsible for synthesizing the flavor compounds and this genetic alteration permanently affects the functioning of the genes.

Loss Of Flavor

Tomatoes lose a substantial amount of aroma and taste when stored below 54 degrees Fahrenheit. This irreversible loss cannot be recovered when they are returned to room temperature.

Texture Degradation

Refrigeration also affects the texture of the tomatoes and leads to a mealy or mushy texture that is less appealing and satisfying.

Aroma Reduction

Chilling also reduces the volatile compounds that are known to be responsible for aroma and further leads to a bland taste when stored at cold temperatures.

Ripening Interference

In the case of unripe tomatoes, refrigerating them hinders the natural ripening process and prevents them from developing further.

Here is a complete guide on the appropriate ways of freezing tomatoes.

Are Tomatoes Better Off At Room Temperature?

Tomatoes, if stored at room temperature, will have richer flavors and a better texture that makes them perfect for culinary adventures.

Here’s why tomatoes are better off at room temperature:

1. Better Flavor Preservation

Refrigeration dulls the taste of the tomatoes, thereby halting the activity of the flavor-enhancing compounds. Therefore, storing them at room temperature is ideal to allow the compounds to develop and also for maintaining their rich, sweet, and tangy flavor.

2. Better Texture

Refrigerating the tomatoes leads to a mealy and mushy texture. This happens because it breaks down the cell walls inside the fruit. Therefore, it is highly recommended to store them at room temperature as doing this will keep them firm, juicy, and flavorful.

3. Ripening Process

Room temperatures allow the unripe tomatoes to ripen perfectly, thereby enhancing their taste and texture. Storing them in a fridge halts the ripening process and leaves them underdeveloped.

4. Temperature Sensitivity

Tomatoes thrive best between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so room temperature is ideal for keeping the tomatoes fresh and preventing them from “Chilling Injury.”