Do red dates need to be stored in the refrigerator

Red dates generally do not need to be stored in the refrigerator, they can be dried and stored at room temperature. The storage method of red dates is mainly affected by factors such as humidity, temperature, pest infestations, oxidation rate, and storage containers.

1. Humidity

Red dates have a high sugar content and are prone to moisture absorption and mold growth in humid environments. If the living environment has high humidity, red dates can be sealed and stored in a refrigerator for a short period of time. However, it should be noted that refrigeration may cause condensation of water droplets on the skin, which is not conducive to storage. It is recommended to prioritize the use of sealed cans in conjunction with food desiccants for storage.

2. Temperature

Red dates can maintain a good taste at room temperature, and sugar analysis may be accelerated when the temperature exceeds 25 degrees Celsius. In areas with high temperatures in summer, short-term refrigeration can be used, but long-term refrigeration can cause the flesh fibers to harden and the taste to become woody after thawing. A cool and ventilated cabinet is more suitable for long-term storage than a refrigerator.

III. Pests

Unseal red dates are prone to attracting pests such as corn borer. Although low temperature in the refrigerator can inhibit the hatching of insect eggs, it cannot kill existing eggs. A more effective way is to rinse the surface of red dates with boiling water before sealing, or freeze them for 48 hours to kill insects before storing at room temperature.

Fourth, oxidation rate

Vitamin C and polyphenolic substances in red dates slow down oxidation when exposed to low temperatures, but short-term storage has limited impact on nutritional value. If it needs to be stored for more than 3 months, it can be vacuumed and frozen, but the flesh will become soft and rotten after thawing, making it more suitable for stewing.

Fifth, Storage Container

Ceramic or glass sealed cans are superior to plastic bags, as they can block moisture and odors. When placing it in the refrigerator, it is necessary to wrap it in a double-layer sealed bag to avoid absorbing odors from other foods inside the refrigerator. A freshness box with breathing holes is suitable for short-term refrigeration, and vacuum packaging is recommended for long-term storage.

Red dates should be stored in a cool and dry place, avoiding direct sunlight. If white frost is found on the surface of red dates, it is a normal occurrence of sugar analysis, and mold will appear as green black spots that need to be discarded immediately. It is suggested to control the daily consumption of 10-15 pills, and halve it for diabetes patients. It can promote iron absorption when cooked with walnuts or tremella Congee, but it should not be eaten with animal liver to avoid affecting mineral absorption efficiency. Red dates stored for more than six months have a higher loss of nutrients, and it is recommended to prioritize the consumption of new dates.