Did you know there are foods that shouldn't be refrigerated? In fact, some types of food stay fresher and taste better if you don't put them in the fridge. Here's a list of which foods should be refrigerated and which ones shouldn't.
1. Tomatoes
When it comes to tomatoes, it's best to put them in a cool, dry place. If you can buy them with the stems and branch still attached, don't take that out since it'll help keep your tomatoes fresh.
However if you have some sliced tomatoes that you're not yet going to use, then it's better to put them in the fridge since once you slice tomatoes, they go bad pretty quick if not refrigerated.
2. Corn on the cob
Corn on the cob should be stored in the fridge, and without the husks. You can safely store them for up to 2 days, and they'll stay fresh.
Storing corn at room temperature can make them lose a lot of their sugar content, and that sugar is what makes corn taste good. So it's best to refrigerate your corn.
3. Watermelons
Watermelons, cantaloupes, and honeydews are best stored in a cool, dry place instead of the fridge. This helps keep the antioxidants in those fruits intact. However, if you slice them open, you need to store them inside the fridge.
4. Potatoes
Potatoes are best stored in a cold, dry, and dark place. You can place your potatoes in a basket, and place a dish towel to cover the tasty spuds.
5. Maple syrup
Some people think that since maple syrup has a high sugar content, then it can be stored indefinitely because sugar helps inhibit certain bacteria. While it does have a long shelf-life, that doesn't mean that maple syrup can't go bad.
Store maple syrup in the fridge, and avoid storing it in your pantry, since it can acquire mold which can thrive on sugary foods.
6. Eggs
You'll be surprised to know that in some countries, especially in Europe, people don't place their eggs in the fridge. It has something to do with the different processes that those countries have when it comes to pasteurizing and storing eggs.
However, to be on the safe side, make sure to keep your eggs in the fridge. If you really need fresh eggs, it's best to buy them from the market and use them as soon as possible.
7. Honey
Fun fact: archaeologists have discovered honey that's over 2000 years old, and it didn't go bad!
Honey has great anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties, which means you can keep it almost indefinitely. It's best stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Putting it in the fridge can cause sugar crystals to develop, and you'll lose that gooey consistency.
8. Hot sauce
Hot sauce contains a lot of spices and vinegar, which means that it keeps well even if you don't put it in the fridge.
9. Jams and jellies
Opened jars of jams and jellies should be placed in the fridge in order to prevent the growth of mold and yeast.
10. Fresh peanut butter
Peanut butter that's made fresh with just peanuts, salt, and sugar, should be stored in the refrigerator. Even if it means that you'll lose the nice spreadable texture.
On the other hand, regular store bought peanut butter can be stored in a cool, dry place since it has preservatives that help keep it fresh for longer.
Source: foodnetwork.com, foodnetwork.com
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