Fruits That Ripen After Purchase: What to Buy Ripe and What to Store
Shopping for fresh fruit isn’t just about grabbing a bunch of bananas or a pineapple and heading to checkout. Some fruits continue to ripen after harvesting, while others stay at the same stage of ripeness. Knowing which fruits mature over time and which do not can help you plan meals, reduce food waste, and make smarter grocery choices.
Below, we explore which fruits ripen after purchase and which remain unchanged, with expert insights on how to tell when they are ready to eat.
Fruits That Continue to Ripen After Purchase
Fruits that ripen post-harvest are known as climacteric fruits. These continue to develop flavor, texture, and sweetness after being picked.
Bananas
Bananas ripen naturally over time, making them a convenient option if you prefer to buy them green and eat them later. To speed up ripening, place them in a brown paper bag with an apple or another ethylene-producing fruit. If already ripe, refrigeration slows down further ripening while preserving freshness.
Stone Fruits (Peaches, Plums, Nectarines, and Apricots)
These fruits soften and sweeten over time when stored at room temperature. If buying unripe, allow them to sit for two to three days before consuming. To check readiness, gently press the fruit—if it has some give, it’s ripe. Refrigeration extends freshness by a few more days.
Pears
Pears are picked mature but ripen post-harvest. Leaving them at room temperature allows them to soften within a few days. For faster ripening, store them next to bananas or apples. Ripe pears should be consumed promptly or stored in the fridge for up to five days.
Kiwis
A firm kiwi indicates immaturity, but it will ripen over several days at room temperature. Storing kiwis near ethylene-producing fruits accelerates the process. A ripe kiwi yields to gentle pressure and has a sweet, fruity scent.
Mangos
Mangos soften and develop a stronger aroma after picking. Typically, they take three to eight days to ripen, but placing them in a paper bag speeds up the process. A slightly soft texture and a tropical fragrance signal peak ripeness.
Fruits That Do Not Ripen After Harvest
Non-climacteric fruits stop maturing the moment they are picked. It’s best to buy them ripe and store them properly.
Cherries
Cherries do not continue ripening, so choose ones that are firm, glossy, and brightly colored. Store them unwashed in the refrigerator to prolong freshness.
Strawberries
Strawberries must be harvested at peak ripeness, as they do not ripen further. Look for bright red, fragrant berries and refrigerate them unwashed to prevent mold growth.
Grapes
Grapes remain at the same stage of ripeness post-harvest. Select bunches with green stems and plump, attached grapes. Refrigerate in a ventilated bag for optimal shelf life.
Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Limes, and Grapefruits)
Citrus fruits do not ripen further once picked. Choose fruits that feel heavy for their size to ensure juiciness. Store them at room temperature for short-term use or in the fridge for prolonged freshness.
Pineapples
Pineapples retain the ripeness they had at harvest. Look for golden skin, a sweet aroma, and slight softness at the base. Storing at room temperature for two days enhances juiciness, but refrigeration extends freshness.
Watermelons
Watermelons do not ripen post-harvest. The best indicator of ripeness is a heavy feel and a yellow field spot (the area where it rested on the ground). Store whole melons at room temperature; refrigerate sliced portions.
FAQs About Ripening Fruits
How can I ripen fruit quickly?
Placing fruit in a brown paper bag with ethylene-producing fruits like apples or bananas can speed up ripening.
Which fruits should never be refrigerated?
Bananas, avocados, and most stone fruits should not be refrigerated before ripening, as cold temperatures hinder the process.
Can I eat unripe fruit?
Some unripe fruits, like bananas or papayas, are safe to eat but may taste bitter or have a firm texture.
What is the best way to store ripe fruit?
Refrigeration slows spoilage. For softer fruits like peaches and berries, keep them in a crisper drawer to extend freshness.
Why do some fruits ripen and others don’t?
The difference lies in ethylene production. Climacteric fruits produce ethylene, which triggers ripening, while non-climacteric fruits do not.
References
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “Ripening and Storing Fruits and Vegetables.”
- Institute of Culinary Education. “Guide to Choosing Ripe Fruit.”
- USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. “Best Practices for Storing Produce.”