How and where to store kiwi fruit correctly?
Kiwis are classified as fruits that do not have a very long shelf life. Most often they are bought ripe, and the degree of ripeness directly affects the period of preservation of the freshness and juiciness of the fruit. If kiwi is not planned to be eaten for several days, then at the time of purchase it is better to give preference to unripe fruit. At home, the fruits ripen well, and due to this time, the period of their high-quality storage can be increased.
You can store kiwi:
- at room temperature;
- in a refrigerator;
- in the freezer.
One of the features of kiwi is the ability to retain all vitamins, regardless of the storage method. The fruit will be equally healthy and tasty, both after room conditions and from the freezer. An exception to this is sliced kiwi. It will not be possible to store such a fruit for a long time, and after a day, bacteria begin to multiply on the surface of its pulp, which accelerate its oxidation and winding.
The nuances of storing kiwi:
- kiwi necessarily need oxygen, so they store these fruits in open containers, paper or plastic bags with pre-drilled holes for ventilation;
- if a plaque appeared on the kiwi during storage, then the fruit began to deteriorate (it is better to refuse to eat it);
- kiwi quickly absorbs odors, so it is not recommended to store fruits near strong-smelling food or other fruits;
- in the refrigerator, kiwi is stored according to the principle of all fruits – in a special compartment designed for this category of products;
- an apple can speed up the ripening process of kiwi (both fruits must be put in a paper bag, the kiwi will mature in 2-3 days);
- it is necessary to wash the kiwi before storage only if it is planned to do it in the freezer (washed fruit at room temperature or in the refrigerator will deteriorate faster);
- with an air humidity of 90-95%, kiwi will preserve better and will not lose its taste characteristics;
- if the kiwi has the first signs of overripening or rotting, then not only will it not be possible to store them, but it is not worth it either.
Before storing kiwi, you need to remember an important rule. The longer this fruit is stored, the softer it becomes. Softness is not only a sign of ripening, but also brings the onset of decay closer. If the kiwi has become soft, then it is better to eat it right away, after making sure that it is not spoiled, but simply has reached the maximum degree of maturity.
How much and at what temperature to store kiwi
The storage temperature of kiwi should not be lower than 0. Under the right conditions, these fruits can keep fresh for three months. Sometimes this period can be extended if the kiwi variety initially has good long-term storage characteristics.
At temperatures from +10 to +15 degrees, kiwi are stored for 4-6 weeks. The main nuance in this case is the elimination of drops and changes in temperature conditions. If the fruit is first stored in the refrigerator, then at room conditions and again in the refrigerator, then they will deteriorate earlier for several weeks from the specified period.
If the kiwi is ripe, and its surface has already become soft, then it can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than two weeks… It is not recommended to store such fruits at room temperature. They will deteriorate in just 4-5 days.
At room temperature, kiwis can be fresh for a maximum of 6 days. During the storage period, it is necessary to exclude direct sunlight on the fruits and choose a dark, well-ventilated place. The fruit must be open. It is impossible to put it in polyethylene at room temperature (the fetus will deteriorate within 1-2 days).
In a frozen state, kiwi can be stored for several months. Freezing whole fruits is not recommended. Pre-cut them into small cubes or rings, and also remove the skin. The workpiece is placed in a freezer in containers or wrapped in plastic wrap.