Want Tomatoes to Last Longer? Follow These Simple Storage Tips

Tomatoes are a kitchen essential, but they can quickly turn soft, wrinkled or rotten if stored the wrong way. A few simple changes in how you keep them can help preserve their freshness, flavour and texture for longer.

1. Keep tomatoes upside down

Place tomatoes with the stem end facing down and touching the surface. This can help reduce moisture loss and keep them fresh for longer. Make sure they are kept in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.

2. Cover the stem scar

If the stem has fallen off, cover the exposed spot with a small piece of tape. Since this area can lose moisture quickly, sealing it may help slow down wrinkling and softening.

3. Avoid refrigerating them too soon

Fresh tomatoes generally do better at room temperature when they are still unripe or only slightly ripe. Refrigeration can affect their texture and flavour, sometimes leaving them less juicy and more mushy.

4. Don't pile them together

Avoid putting tomatoes in a deep basket and stacking them on top of one another. The weight and pressure can bruise the tomatoes underneath and speed up spoilage. Instead, arrange them in a single layer on a plate or tray.

5. Keep them away from other fruits

Bananas, apples and some other fruits release ethylene gas, which can accelerate ripening. Keeping tomatoes separately can help slow down the process and give you more time to use them.

Choose better tomatoes at the market

Storage starts with choosing the right tomatoes. Pick firm, smooth tomatoes without bruises, dark spots or damaged areas. If the stem is still attached, leave it on until you're ready to use the tomato.

With the right placement, temperature and handling, you can reduce unnecessary spoilage and get more use out of every tomato you bring home.