Mandarin oranges are classified as citrus fruit, along with other well-known varieties including oranges and grapefruits. According to Purdue University, each type of mandarin has a somewhat different texture, flavour, and look. Mandarins are a convenient, transportable snack because of their small size and high vitamin and mineral content. They are frequently included in salads and other cuisines. Mandarins don't keep for particularly lengthy amounts of time. Here are some strategies to make your Mandarin oranges last longer.
1. Paper Bags
Oranges should be stored in a paper bag in the refrigerator, lightly covered; check the bag on a regular basis for signs of deterioration. Close the paper bag as tightly as you can to keep the mandarin oranges from getting too much air, but the skin can still dry out. If that occurs, the orange loses some of its flavours but remains safe to eat as long as there are no signs of rotting, mould, or other imperfections.
2. Freezer
To stop the segments from freezing together into a single mass, peel and segment the Mandarin oranges before arranging them in a single layer in a freezer bag. The frozen chunks can be added to smoothies or fruit juices, or eaten as a vitamin-rich, refreshing snack. Mandarin oranges that have been frozen can be kept indefinitely, but the flavour may deteriorate.
3. At room temperature
Mandarin oranges that haven't been peeled last about a week when kept at room temperature in a cool, dark environment. In a refrigerator's crisper drawer, an unpeeled orange keeps for roughly two weeks to one month. Compared to a countertop in direct sunlight or on top of the refrigerator, mandarins keep better in a cold, dark location. When you store them whole and unpeeled, there is no requirement for a plastic bag.
4. In An Airtight Container
Mandarin orange segments with the skin still on can be kept in an airtight container. Use a glass food storage container or a plastic container for food storage. If you store the jar in a cold, dark place, like the refrigerator, the oranges will keep for about a week or perhaps up to a month.