Keeping lemons fresh: Simple storage hacks to reduce waste

This time of year, we often buy lemons in bulk, especially when they're available at good prices. They're particularly useful for tea or for warm water with lemon juice, ginger, and honey. However, no matter how many you buy, you should not let them go to waste.

We often don't pay much attention to storing citrus fruits. They are considered relatively durable fruits and are protected by a thick peel, and that's true. However, only under the right conditions can they stay fresh for about two weeks. If we forget about proper storage, they spoil much faster. Many of us put lemons in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening and moulding process, but that's a short-term solution.

Lemons will stay fresher longer in the refrigerator; however, low temperatures encourage moisture buildup, which, in the case of citrus, causes faster spoilage and mould growth. There's a simple way to prevent this: the fruits must be placed in tightly sealed containers or paper bags. This protection helps reduce moisture and prevents odours from other products from permeating. It's worth remembering this if you have a larger quantity of lemons.

If you have fewer lemons and you use them regularly, there's no need to store them in the refrigerator. It's best to store them in a dry, shaded place, such as a cool pantry or a closed cabinet in the kitchen. However, citrus fruits dry out quickly once cut and lose their juiciness. In that case, keeping them in the refrigerator and securing them to prevent moisture loss is good. Again, containers or bags will work. A cut lemon should be consumed within a few days.

When storing lemons outside the refrigerator, remember that not every company is good for them. Citrus fruits should not be placed in a basket or on a tray with fruits that emit ethylene, such as bananas, apples, avocados, or tomatoes. Ethylene is a natural gas that accelerates the ripening of fruits and will cause lemons to spoil more quickly.