Do You Have to Refrigerate Oranges?

 

Question: I usually store oranges in my refrigerator, but is that really necessary?

Answer: You don’t have to refrigerate oranges, but they'll last much longer if you do.

As the Florida Department of Citrus points out, oranges don’t ripen any further once they’ve been picked and the refrigerator is the best place for maximimizing their shelf life.

At room temperature, oranges usually keep for up to one week — in your fridge, they'll generally stay fresh for three to four weeks.

Once you've peeled or cut into an orange you should refrigerate any leftovers right away. Wrap the cut fruit tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and use it within three or four days.

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