How should papaya be stored for maximum freshness?

Properly storing papaya helps preserve its taste and nutrient value while also significantly increasing its shelf life. Different stages of ripeness demand different storage temperatures and techniques. Unripe fruit should be ripened at room temperature, while ripe papaya is best stored in the refrigerator. Cut pieces of papaya may be stored by freezing. Always wash fruit before preparing it to ensure its safety.

Unripe papayas require proper air circulation at room temperature; place them on countertops in locations where they will not be exposed to direct sunlight. Keep the fruits separate so that they will not bruise. Do not place near other fruits that give off the ripening gas, ethylene, such as apples or bananas, as they will cause a more rapid than normal ripening of the papayas. Turn the fruit daily to ensure even color development.

Refrigeration will greatly slow the ripening of ripe papayas. Place whole fruits that are not cut in the warmest part of the refrigerator, generally the crisper drawer. Control humidity by maintaining ventilation through perforated plastic bags. Do not refrigerate unripe papayas, as cold conditions can harm the cell structure and permanently inhibit ripening.

Freezing sliced papaya is effective for up to months. Cube the ripe fruit. Remove seeds and skin. Spread the cubes flat on a baking sheet and freeze them hard before transferring them to airtight containers. This will keep them from sticking together. Frozen papaya works beautifully in smoothies, retaining 90 percent of its nutrients. The thawed cubes have a perfect texture for cooked uses.

To avoid contamination, follow good hygiene practices by thoroughly washing the papayas in running water and scrubbing the skin surface with a vegetable brush. The papayas should be dried completely before being put away. Cut the papayas on clean surfaces, using different knives (such as a small knife or a vegetable knife) for the peel and flesh of the papayas. This helps prevent the transfer of bacteria, which is especially important when consuming raw foods.

Techniques are important for longevity. Surround the cut area tightly with a beeswax wrap, preventing oxidation. Insert paper towels into storage containers to aid in absorbing excess moisture. Squeeze lemon juice (not lime juice) strategically over exposed surfaces to reduce enzymatic browning. These methods enhance the visual appeal of the fruit while also increasing its nutritional value.

Read the full article: 10 Proven Benefits of Papaya Fruit