Here is a list of foods that you should absolutely not refrigerate. With all the food advice available through internet and the media, its difficult to choose what is best for you. However, here is a slideshow of what foods are actively being degraded by refrigeration and should never be cold or frozen.
1. Tomatoes
If tomatoes are kept in sunlight they will ripen too fast. If they are kept in cold temperature, it will cause the cell walls to break down and then they become soft and mushy. So for best results, store them out of direct sunlight and at room temperature.
2. Bananas
Like tomatoes, bananas also like to be stored at room temperature. If you are trying to delay the ripening process, refrigerate them. Beware that this will cause the skin to turn brown. However, the inside should still be edible.
5. Garlic
6. Avocados
If you want your avocado to ripen naturally you should leave it outside the refrigerator. Only if you are trying to postpone its ripeness then keep in the refrigerator. And if you are trying save an already cut avocado, refrigerate the half with the seed. It will keep longer that way.
7. Honey
Honey is one of the earth’s oldest known preservatives. Its been know to be discovered in Egyptian tombs and the honey is still edible. Wow, its shelf life is for forever. If refrigerated, it becomes crystalized and even harder to use.
8. Hot Sauces
Have you ever noticed that hot sauce is always unrefrigerated at restaurants? Thats because it doesn’t have to be. Especially if it is vinegar based which most hot sauces are. By refrigerating, it causes it to loose flavor and change the consistency.
10. Fruit
All fruits should be ripened at room temperature. Only if you are trying to keep them longer should you refrigerate. By leaving them out, they ripen and sweeten at their own pace which will allow the fruit to be at its best.
11. Spices
Spices do not benefit from refrigeration by any means. The humidity and coldness can diminish its flavor. Most spices can last for years in your home. But don’t forget to check expiration dates often.
(via Mind and Bodies)
