How long do kiwis last?
The shelf life of kiwi largely depends on whether the fruit is ripe or unripe. Unripe kiwis are usually green and slightly firm to the touch. When stored at room temperature, unripe kiwis can last for about 7 to 14 days. However, it’s important to note that they will continue to ripen during this time and should be checked regularly for optimal ripeness.
Ripe kiwis, on the other hand, are softer and have a vibrant yellow or brown skin. Once a kiwi is fully ripe, it will only last for another 1 to 2 days at room temperature. After this point, the fruit starts to lose its firmness and becomes mushy, making it less appealing to eat.
How to prolong the shelf life of kiwis?
If you want to extend the shelf life of your kiwis, proper storage is crucial. Here are a few tips to help you keep your kiwis fresh for longer:
- Refrigerate: Kiwis can be stored in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process. Place ripe kiwis in a ventilated container or simply leave them in the original packaging if it provides enough airflow. Unripe kiwis, however, should be kept at room temperature until they are ready to be ripened.
- Avoid moisture: Moisture can cause kiwis to spoil faster, so make sure the storage container is dry and avoid washing the kiwis until you’re ready to eat them.
- Separate from ethylene-producing fruits: Kiwis are sensitive to ethylene gas, which is naturally produced by some fruits like apples, bananas, and avocados. To prevent premature ripening, store kiwis away from these ethylene-producing fruits.
How to know if a kiwi has gone bad?
While kiwis do have a shorter shelf life compared to some other fruits, it’s important to know when they have gone bad. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Mold: If you notice any mold on the skin of the kiwi, it’s best to discard it as the mold can spread quickly and may affect the quality of the fruit.
- Wrinkled skin: Kiwis that have wrinkled skin indicate that they have become overripe and are starting to deteriorate.
- Mushy texture: If a kiwi feels too soft and has a mushy texture, it has likely gone bad and should not be consumed.
- Foul smell: A bad kiwi may emit an unpleasant odor, similar to fermented or rotten fruit. Trust your nose and discard the fruit if it smells off.
By properly storing and being vigilant for signs of spoilage, you can enjoy the maximum freshness and flavor of kiwis throughout their shelf life. So go ahead and savor these delightful fruits while they are at their best!