Storing fruits in the refrigerator might seem like a good idea to keep them fresh, but for some fruits, this habit can actually ruin their natural taste, texture, and nutritional value. Here are five commonly consumed fruits you should never refrigerate, especially when they’re raw or semi-ripe.

1. Mangoes

Refrigerating mangoes, especially raw or semi-ripe ones, dulls their signature aroma and reduces their natural sweetness. The cold environment slows the ripening process and often leaves the fruit tasteless and mealy. Tip: Keep mangoes at room temperature until fully ripe, then refrigerate if needed for only a day or two.

2. Apples

While many people store apples in the fridge to keep them crisp, prolonged chilling can actually soften their texture and mute their natural sweetness. If the apples aren’t fully ripe, refrigeration will delay the ripening process and affect their overall flavour. Tip: Let apples ripen at room temperature before refrigerating briefly if needed.

3. Pineapples

Whole, uncut pineapples should not be refrigerated. The cold air reduces their natural juiciness and turns the texture spongy. Much of the tropical flavour evaporates in the fridge. Tip: Let pineapples ripen at room temperature. Once cut, store the pieces in an airtight container in the fridge for short periods.

4. Oranges

Oranges can tolerate the fridge for a short time, but extended storage causes them to dry out. Their peel hardens, and the juicy pulp inside starts to lose moisture. Tip: Store oranges in a mesh basket or a cool, ventilated space instead of the fridge.

5. Papayas

If you refrigerate raw or semi-ripe papayas, their ripening enzymes get suppressed, making the fruit hard, bland, and unappetizing. Tip: Only place ripe, cut papaya in the fridge. Whole, unripe papayas should always be kept at room temperature to ripen naturally.