Avocados are a popular staple in many households, often used for breakfasts with eggs and toast, as well as in salads and smoothies. Despite their popularity, one of the most common challenges people face is knowing how to store them properly to avoid spoilage. The fruit's shelf life can vary depending on factors such as its ripeness at purchase and how it is stored, but it typically lasts between three and seven days at room temperature.
Waste management experts at Wheeldon Brothers have shared a simple storage tip to keep avocados fresh for up to two weeks. The key is to refrigerate fully ripe avocados, which slows down the ripening process and reduces the chances of them turning brown.
Keeping the fruit riper for longer
The experts said: “Avocados are one of the most wasted foods because of their speedy ripening process. But refrigerating fully ripe avocados can extend their freshness for up to two weeks, reducing their chances of going brown.”
It is important to move avocados into the fridge only once they are softer and riper, as placing an unripe avocado in the fridge can take weeks to soften. Ideally, they should be placed in the crisper drawer at the bottom of the fridge, but any clean and stable shelf works if space is tight.
Keeping cut avocados fresh
Once cut, avocados are prone to browning due to a natural enzyme that reacts with oxygen. However, there is an easy way to slow this process down. The experts explained: “Coating the flesh with lemon or lime juice helps keep it fresh and green. The acidity slows oxidation, preserving both the colour and texture. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.”
Freezing an avocado
Freezing is another option for extending the fruit's shelf life, but it is not ideal for every use, according to the experts. They said: “Freezing avocados can keep them fresh for up to four months. However, the texture can change after thawing, so frozen avocados work best for recipes where they’ll be mashed or blended. If freezing, cut them into chunks or slices and store them in an airtight bag.”
Buying avocados based on when you plan to use them can also help reduce waste. If you are not planning to eat them right away, buying unripe ones and letting them ripen naturally at room temperature is recommended. The waste experts noted: “Once they’re ripe, refrigerate them to extend their freshness. This way, you can better control their ripening and avoid throwing them out too soon.”
