How many days can longan be stored at room temperature

Longan can generally be stored for 2-3 days at room temperature, and the actual storage time is affected by factors such as maturity, environmental humidity, ventilation conditions, whether it is stored with branches, and whether it is intact and undamaged.

1. Maturity

Longan fruit peels that are fully ripe become softer, have higher sugar content, and are more susceptible to microbial invasion. When purchasing, you can choose fresh longan with a hard shell and a greenish yellow color, which has strong storage resistance. If cracks or leakage are found on the fruit stem, it indicates that it is over ripe and should be consumed as soon as possible.

2. Environmental humidity

A humid environment can accelerate the mold growth of longan. It is recommended to store it in a cool and dry place. In humid areas of the south, kitchen paper can be used to wrap and absorb moisture, avoiding direct contact with water vapor. Do not put it in a sealed bag to prevent water vapor accumulation. Use a hollowed out fruit basket to hold it and maintain air circulation.

3. Ventilation conditions

Longan respiration produces ethylene gas, which can accumulate and cause collective decay. It should be spread flat on bamboo screens or cardboard boxes, separated by newspapers between layers. Avoid mixing with fruits such as bananas and apples that release a large amount of ethylene, otherwise it will accelerate the rate of decay.

4. Preservation with branches

Longan with fruit branches has a longer shelf life, and the fruit stem can delay water loss. When picking or purchasing, try to keep fruit branches about 5 centimeters long and store them upright facing up. Fruits with removed stems lose water quickly and their skin is prone to wrinkling and deterioration.

5. Shell integrity

Damaged fruit shells can expose the flesh and breed bacteria. When selecting, avoid individuals with dents or black spots. Longan with minor damage should be consumed first, and intact fruits can be stored for an appropriate extension of time. Regularly check during storage and promptly remove individuals who have started fermentation. If you need to extend the storage time, you can put the longan in a fresh-keeping bag, remove the air, and refrigerate it. The temperature should be controlled at around 4 ℃ and it can be stored for 5-7 days. Freezing storage requires de nucleating and sealing, and can be stored for several months, but the taste deteriorates after thawing. Regardless of the storage method, it is important to observe for any signs of spoilage such as alcohol taste or mucus before consumption. Fresh longan is rich in vitamin C and potassium. It is advisable to take 10-15 pieces of it every day. People with diabetes should control their intake. It is recommended to consume as soon as possible after purchase to obtain the best flavor and nutrition.