Keep avocados ripe and green with 24p item that ‘makes a big difference’

Avocados are notoriously tricky to store: one day they’re hard as rocks, and the next they’ve gone from perfectly ripe to an unappetizing mush. Worse still, once you’ve sliced into one, the clock starts ticking fast, as the once-vibrant green turns brown in what feels like minutes. And that’s why, sadly, so many end up in the bin before they can be enjoyed.

In fact, avocados are “one of the most wasted foods because of their speedy ripening process,” explained a waste management specialist at Wheeldon Brothers. But their advice shows that a simple 24p item could be the key to keeping your avocados fresher for longer, both whole and cut.

The issue behind that dreaded browning is a natural enzyme called polyphenol oxidase, which reacts when exposed to air. And the solution is hiding in most people’s kitchens.

“Coating the flesh with lemon or lime juice helps keep it green and fresh,” the expert advised.

“The acidity slows oxidation, preserving both the colour and texture. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.”

With a single squeeze of lime or lemon, which costs as little as 24p per piece at Tesco and Sainsburys, you can extend the life of your leftover avocado and keep it looking appetising.

For whole avocados that are already ripe, your fridge is your best bet, as “refrigerating fully ripe avocados can extend their freshness for up to 14 days, reducing the chances of them going to waste,” according to the expert.

That extra time can make all the difference, especially for those who don’t get through a whole fruit in one go.

Freezing is also a viable option if you’ve got a glut of ripe avocados on your hands, though it’s not suitable for every dish.

“Freezing avocados can keep them fresh for up to four months,” said the specialist.

“However, the texture can change after thawing, so frozen avocados work best for recipes where they’ll be mashed or blended.”