- Some foods perish more quickly at room temperature because they contain natural oils that can go rancid or develop mold.
- The fridge helps keep flavors and nutritional properties fresh, slowing down processes of deterioration and alteration.
- Properly storing food extends its shelf life, preventing waste and ensuring better quality over time.
The refrigerator helps keep foods fresh longer and preserve their taste, allowing you to get the most out of each ingredient. But are you sure you know which foods should be kept in the refrigerator and which should not? You might be surprised to find out that some items commonly stored in the pantry should be refrigerated instead. For example, these five would be best put in the refrigerator right away.
1. Natural peanut butter
Peanut butter is almost exclusively made from ground peanuts and, at most, a pinch of salt. If the ingredient list is longer, you should consider switching brands. This kind of peanut butter tends to separate, with the oil floating on top and the thicker, creamier part at the bottom.
If you don’t finish it within a month after opening, it’s better to store it in the fridge, as the natural oils in the peanuts can go rancid quickly at room temperature. Especially if the label recommends storing it in a cool place after opening, follow the instructions and keep it in the fridge. And if you notice any mold, throw it away immediately: without preservatives, natural peanut butter is more prone to spoiling.
Finally, if you’re worried about having to use a hammer and chisel to spread it, here’s a trick: scoop out the amount you need, let it soften at room temperature, or heat it for a few seconds in the microwave.
2. Whole-wheat flour
Putting flour in the refrigerator may seem like a gamble, but in the case of whole wheat flour it is actually a very wise choice. Since it contains wheat germ, which tends to go rancid quickly, it is best stored in the refrigerator or freezer if you want to keep it fresh for a long time.
Another thing to keep in mind is its tendency to absorb strong odors easily. To prevent the flour from picking up unwanted flavors, store it in a plastic bag or airtight container, and keep it away from strong-smelling foods like garlic or onions that could alter its taste.
3. Nuts
Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and other dried fruits are healthy and tasty snacks. If you buy them in large quantities, your best bet is to store them in the refrigerator (or even in the freezer if you want to extend their shelf life). The natural oils in nuts tend to go rancid when exposed to heat. If you plan to consume them within a month, you can keep them in the pantry, but otherwise, it’s better to keep them cool. By storing them in the fridge or freezer, you slow down this process, and the nuts stay fresh longer. In the freezer, they will last almost indefinitely without becoming rock-hard, as they have very little water content. Before eating, you can take them out of the fridge and leave them at room temperature for a while, or alternatively, toast them lightly in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crunchy texture.
4. Oils
If you use oil daily, you can safely leave it in the pantry. But if you have purchased it in large quantities or have multiple open bottles, consider keeping it in the refrigerator. Oil deteriorates when exposed to external agents such as light, air and heat, three factors that accelerate the rancidity process. And because it is often stored near the stove for convenience, the risk increases. Some oils once refrigerated may take on a cloudy appearance or become thicker, but simply bringing them back to room temperature will return them to their normal consistency.
5. Tahini (sesame seed paste)
Less well-known than peanut butter despite being an excellent source of calcium contained in sesame seeds, among the richest plant sources of calcium, tahini should be kept refrigerated after opening. Although it contains natural oils, these can go rancid quickly at room temperature. In the refrigerator, tahini keeps better, retaining freshness and flavor longer. Just like natural peanut butter, it can separate and form a layer of oil on the surface. Simply mix it thoroughly before use.