7 Tips to Keep Tomatoes Fresh Longer

From salads and curries to sauces and soups, tomatoes are a staple ingredient in countless dishes. But they are highly perishable due to their delicate skin and high water content.

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When we throw away rotten tomatoes, they usually end up in landfills, releasing methane, a harmful greenhouse gas that contributes to the climate crisis.

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But we can keep these delightful fruits fresh longer, save money, and reduce waste.

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Here are some tips on how to keep tomatoes fresh for longer:

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1. Store unripe tomatoes on the counter

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Let's settle the famous tomato debate: should I refrigerate tomatoes or not? Cold temperatures can ruin their flavor and texture. Ideally, keep tomatoes at room temperature until they're ripe. If you need to slow down ripening, refrigerate them for a short time only.

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2. Keep them dry

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Moisture causes mold and makes tomatoes break down faster. Make sure they're completely dry before storing. If you wash your tomatoes before storing them, gently pat them dry with a clean towel.

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3. Store stem-side down

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Store tomatoes stem side down to keep them fresh longer. This method prevents moisture from entering the stem scar, reducing the risk of spoilage and mold. Storing them this way creates a barrier against oxygen and bacteria, keeping the tomatoes juicy and slowing down the ripening process.

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4. Tape the stem

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Another way to prevent moisture from entering the tomatoes and spoiling them is to keep the stem side up and taping the stem. You can put any kind of tape over the small stem bump and leave it there until you are ready to use the tomatoes. This will create a barrier against mold and bacteria. You can use biodegradable tape to be more sustainable.

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5. Store them in a cool, dark place

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If your kitchen has a cool, dark pantry or cupboard, store tomatoes there to maintain their flavor and nutritional value. Excessive light can degrade their quality. Also, store tomatoes in a single layer to avoid bruising and rot caused by touching and lack of airflow. A shallow basket or counter space works best.

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6. Keep tomatoes away from ethylene producers

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Apples and bananas emit ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone that accelerates the ripening process of tomatoes and other fruits. To ensure your tomatoes remain fresh for a longer period, it is best to store them away from these ethylene-producing fruits and in a well-ventilated area.

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7. Store the cut tomatoes

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To keep cut tomatoes fresh, cover them with reusable wraps like beeswax wraps and store them in the fridge. This will preserve their taste and texture.

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