How long can cauliflower be stored in refrigeration

Generally, cauliflower can be stored in refrigeration for 3-5 days, and the actual storage period depends on factors such as the freshness of the cauliflower, refrigeration temperature, and packaging method.

If cauliflower is stored directly without treatment during refrigeration, the leaves and flower bulbs are prone to dehydration and wilting. It is recommended to wrap the flower bulbs with plastic wrap or put them in breathable food bags to slow down water loss. The refrigeration temperature should be controlled at 0-4 degrees Celsius, avoiding storing it together with fruits such as apples and bananas that release ethylene, otherwise it will accelerate the deterioration of cauliflower. If the cauliflower turns yellow, soft or moldy, it indicates that it is no longer suitable for consumption. If the cauliflower is blanched, drained, and frozen, the shelf life can be extended to 8-12 months. Blanching can inactivate oxidase that causes decay, while freezing can inhibit microbial growth. But after thawing, the taste will become softer, making it more suitable for stewing dishes. Please note to divide into small portions before freezing to avoid repeated thawing. If there are black spots on the surface of cauliflower after refrigeration but it has not rotted, it can still be consumed after removing the spoiled parts.

To extend the shelf life of cauliflower, it is recommended to choose fresh cauliflower with compact flower balls and white color when purchasing, and there is no need to clean it before refrigeration. The incision at the base of cauliflower can be observed daily. If it turns black or oozes mucus, it should be discarded immediately. It is recommended to process the cauliflower in batches according to the consumption amount to avoid nutrient loss caused by long-term storage. The vitamin C retention rate of blanched and frozen cauliflower is about 60% of that of fresh cauliflower, making it suitable for long-term meal preparation.