
10 foods that do not need refrigeration
Refrigeration has been a boon as it extends the shelf life and prevents the food items from spoiling. If you find your refrigerator is always full, it may have got things which may not exactly be refrigerating foods. There are many food items that will actually not taste good when kept in colder temperatures. Putting everything that comes from the grocery store into the refrigerator will not only reduce the space for essentials but also affect the flavors of many foods. Hence, decluttering your fridge from time to time is essential.
Keep reading to know the list of 10 foods that should not be in the refrigerator.
1. Pickles
This is the number one non-refrigerating food item. Pickles have a longer shelf life as they are preserved in sodium and brine for this very reason. They can be kept in the pantry at room temperature until opened.
2. Potatoes
Refrigerating foods such as potatoes is a sure way to spoil its taste and flavor. Temperatures below 50 degrees cause the potatoes to discolor on cooking. Additionally, they should not be stored close to onions as both will spoil sooner.
3. Oils
Oils lose their smoothness and will harden if stored in a refrigerator. However, nut oils such as hazelnut oil, peanut oil should be refrigerated. Store them in a cool place in the pantry.
4. Peppers and tomatoes
Unless cut, these veggies should not be considered refrigerating food. They will become mushy and soft in the refrigerator. Keep them out at the shelf and away from direct sunlight.
5. Fruits
Certain fruits such as peaches, avocados, nectarines, bananas, berries, and plums need some natural light to ripen and retain their flavor. So, they do not need refrigeration.
6. Breads
Bread tends to lose its moisture as the cool air of the refrigerator speeds up the dehydration process. Bread is best when kept at room temperature. Keep only as much bread as needed for 4 to 5 days.
7. Honey
Honey remains fresh and consumable for years. When kept as a refrigerating food, honey tends to crystallize. This will make it frustrating to scoop out as it freezes there. Honey will not spoil for years when kept at room temperature. So, no refrigeration is required for this food item.
8. Garlic and onion
Garlic and onion will lose their pungent flavor. You can store them in a cool, dark place.
9. Coffee
Though coffee needs to be stored in a cool place, this does not mean a refrigerator. That will surely cause the coffee to spoil and go bland as it will gain moisture. Coffee should be kept in an air-tight container. If coffee is stored in the refrigerator, it can alter its flavor.
10. Hot sauces
Refrigerating foods hot sauces may make them lose their flavor. The cold temperature in the refrigerator will alter the viscosity of the sauces. Hence, they should ideally be stored in the cabinet at room temperature. They will remain unspoiled even for 1 to 2 years when kept in the pantry.