What’s the best temperature for storing mangoes at home?

Question

Discover the best mango home storage temperature. Learn when to keep them on the counter and when to move them to the fridge for perfect ripeness.

Answer 1

The ideal temperature for storing mangoes at home is between 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). This helps to slow down ripening and prevent spoilage while preserving their flavor and texture.

Detailed Explanation:

Mangoes are tropical fruits that are sensitive to temperature. Storing them at room temperature (above 25°C or 77°F) will cause them to ripen very quickly, potentially leading to over-ripening and spoilage. On the other hand, storing them at temperatures below 8°C (46°F) can cause chilling injury, which manifests as discoloration, pitting, and a loss of flavor.

To properly store mangoes, follow these steps:

1. Ripeness Check: Determine the ripeness of your mangoes. If they are already ripe (slightly soft to the touch and fragrant), they need to be stored in the refrigerator. If they are still firm, they can be left at room temperature until they ripen.
2. Refrigeration: If refrigerating, place the ripe mangoes in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This area typically maintains a slightly higher humidity, which helps prevent the mangoes from drying out.
3. Monitoring: Check the mangoes daily for signs of spoilage, such as soft spots, mold, or an off odor.
4. Ripening at Room Temperature: If you have unripe mangoes, store them at room temperature away from direct sunlight. You can place them in a paper bag to speed up the ripening process. Once ripe, transfer them to the refrigerator.

Pro Tip:

Don't store mangoes near ethylene-producing fruits like bananas or avocados, as this will accelerate the ripening process and potentially lead to premature spoilage.