Sometimes we throw things in the fridge because we think it’s healthier to do so, or it will preserve the food item for longer. For students with shared fridge space or even small bar fridges, take comfort in knowing that not everything needs a spot in the fridge. Here are 5 things that definitely don’t:

 

1. Certain fruits don’t need the fridge, ever! Bananas, avocados, apples, oranges and pears are amongst a variety of fruits that don’t need to go in a fridge. Bananas and avocados in particular stop ripening in cold conditions and can go an ugly shade of brown, whilst apples and pears lose their crisp texture from the cold air. Oranges can be left unrefrigerated for several weeks. (But why would you waste them? We think a freshly squeezed glass of orange juice every morning would be a better way to enjoy your oranges J)
2. Tomatoes will certainly lose their flavour and texture if stored in the fridge. The acids and sugars start to break down in cold conditions causing the flavour to change. The cell structure becomes soft and squidgy which is not what you want on your sarnie. Keep tomatoes on your counter with your fruits.
3. Storing bread in your fridge stops the growth of mould but leaves your bread hard and flavourless. Because temperatures in SA can get very warm and facilitate the growth of mould, rather store your bread in the freezer and take out a few slices at a time 30 minutes before you plan to use it.
4. We’re on the fence about eggs, but we will say this…if you keep eggs in the fridge they will last longer, however if you store them at room temperature and you love to bake, your cakes will possibly have a better crumb.

Honey is a wonderful preservative and can last forever (ancient cultures are rumoured to have used the substance for embalming the deceased…yikes!). Leave honey in your cupboard and it will keep perfectly. If you place it in the fridge it will form crystals, and nobody likes a crunchy honey sandwich. 

On the contrary, some foods are overlooked when it comes to refrigeration and they should definitely have a place in your fridge. Here are 5 that are often overlooked:

1. Salami – research in 2006 conducted on over 1000 salamis showed that 23% of the sample tested contained a harmful bacteria.  Store your salami in the fridge for up to 12 days so that you can slow down the growth of any harmful bacteria.
2. Maple syrup – because honey stores so well in the cupboard, many think that syrup has the same magical qualities. In fact, Maple syrup has a very short life span and once opened, should definitely be kept in the fridge….(or consumed quickly as a topping to homemade ice-cream, waffles or other baked treats #JustSaying)
3. Tomato Sauce – whilst there is plenty of acid to keep away bacteria, place your tomato sauce in the fridge to increase freshness and flavour. (The opposite can be said for fresh tomatoes).
4. Mielies – a favourite for South Africans, store Mielies (corn on the cob) in the fridge as soon as you get it home. Leaving it out in the veg rack will see 40% of the sugar content decrease within 6 hours. Mielies should still be sweet when cooked, so rather store them in your fridge.
5. Although nuts are hardy, remember that they contain fats, and these fats (like any room temperature fat) can get rancid. It’s not unhealthy but it makes the nuts taste awful – so rather store them in the fridge to preserve their flavour.

 These are just a few hints and tips to help you stay healthy, save space and preserve some of the foodie items you love. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

 These are just a few hints and tips to help you stay healthy, save space and preserve some of the foodie items you love. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.