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.

Explain how the perception of flavor is influenced by smell.

What are aroma compounds and why are they important for the flavor of tomatoes?

What effect does refrigeration have on the flavor of tomatoes?

Discuss the findings of the 2016 study regarding chilled tomatoes and their flavor.

What recommendations are made for storing tomatoes to maintain their flavor?