Why You Should Never Put Tomatoes in the Fridge!

Refrigerating tomatoes below 20°C alters their gene expression, reducing aroma compounds and flavor. Flavor is a combination of taste and smell, with smell being a major determinant. A study showed refrigerated tomatoes lose 65% of aroma compounds, affecting flavor despite unchanged sugar and acid levels. This may be an evolutionary response to conserve energy. Other fruits also lose flavor in the fridge due to halted ripening. To maintain flavor, keep fruits on the counter until ripe and avoid refrigerating tomatoes.

What happens to a tomato's flavor when it is stored in the fridge?

• It gains more acidity.

• Its aroma compounds are reduced.

• It becomes sweeter.

• Its color changes.

According to the study, what percentage of aroma compounds do refrigerated tomatoes lose?

• 65%

• 30%

• 80%

• 50%

What is hypothesized as a possible evolutionary reason for reduced aroma compound synthesis in cold conditions?

• To increase acidity.

• To conserve energy.

• To enhance sweetness.

• To change color.

How does refrigeration generally affect the ripening process of fruits?

• It enhances aroma compounds.

• It makes fruits sweeter.

• It halts the ripening process.

• It speeds up ripening.

What is the recommended way to store tomatoes for the best flavor?

• In the fridge only if they are overripe.

• In a dark cupboard.

• On the counter until ripe, then in the fridge.

• In the fridge immediately after purchase.