Foods That Should Never Touch Your Fridge (And Why)

Bananas

Bananas definitely don’t thrive in the chill of a fridge. In fact, the cold can speed up the process of turning them black!

To get the best out of your bananas, buy them before they’re fully ripe and let them ripen naturally at room temperature in your kitchen. And here’s a bonus: bananas are excellent for your blood pressure, so go ahead and enjoy them!

Whole Melons

Just like bananas, melons don’t do well in the cold, as refrigeration can speed up their rotting.

Since melons are often a go-to for summer gatherings, it’s tempting to keep them chilled, but they actually last longer at room temperature. If you’re buying a whole melon, you’re likely preparing for a fun time with friends, so be sure to cut it up and enjoy it quickly before it dries out.

When you buy a melon, store it in a cool, dry place—not too cold! It’s the perfect refreshing treat to savor in the garden!

Basil

Basil is a must-have herb for any kitchen, adding a unique flavor to elevate your dishes.

However, it’s important to keep it at a temperature of at least 40°F (4°C)—anything colder can cause black spots to appear and ruin its taste. This way, it’ll last much longer and continue to bring fresh flavor to your meals.

To keep your basil fresh, store it in a bit of water and keep it in the shade, rather than in the fridge.

Onions

Whether they’re chopped, fried, or whole, treating them with care is essential.

Interestingly, onions and potatoes don’t mix well—keeping them close together can speed up the onions’ aging process. To keep both fresh, store them in separate areas of your kitchen, and most importantly, keep them out of the fridge!

Onions thrive in warmer climates and, even more importantly, need proper air circulation to stay fresh.