The Trick to Keep Clementines Longer
Clementines are citrus fruits resulting from the crossbreeding of mandarins and bitter oranges. They’re small, round, and have a thin, easy-to-peel skin. Their pulp is juicy and sweet with a delicate flavor, and it’s a little less acidic than other citrus varieties such as mandarins and oranges.
Just like any other fruit, clementines undergo natural decay after being harvested. Mold is one of the main problems that can cause spoilage of this fruit. The chief reasons for their decline include the growth of fungi and bacteria on the skin, damage during transportation, and exposure to high temperatures or moisture.
How to Store Clementines
To keep clementines fresh for longer, there are some very useful and effective storage practices. To maintain the freshness of clementines, place them in a cool, dry spot like a fruit store or in a refrigerator, ideally between 39 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit(or 4 and 10 degrees Celsius). It is advisable to store them in a separate drawer and away from ethylene-releasing foods like apples and bananas.
If clementines are stored in a container, it’s important to prevent them from touching each other. When they touch, they can become moldy more quickly. It is best to store them in an open container or a basket, allowing air to circulate around each fruit, aiding in their preservation.
Washing this fruit can increase the moisture on their surface and speed up the decomposition process. It’s better to wash them just before eating to preserve their freshness longer. Clementines are not fruits that can be stored for the long term. Storing them for a couple of weeks can cause them to dry out.
When you shop, choose clementines that are smooth, firm, and free of marks or dents. Opting for those with thicker skins can help keep them better.
An effective tip to prevent moisture is using paper towels. Placing a sheet of paper towel in the container or drawer of the refrigerator where they are stored can help absorb moisture.
If you have a large quantity of these fruits, you can freeze them. Before freezing, remove the peel and seeds, and cut them into pieces. Then put them in airtight food bags and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.
