Avocado halves in water is one of the latest trends circulating on TikTok.
We're here to set the record straight on one of the latest trends circulating on TikTok. You've undoubtedly seen videos in which people store avocado halves in water to keep them from going bad. The US FDA says that while that's likely fine for a few hours, it poses a "food safety hazard" if you try to store your avocados like this.
According to an article published by the FDA, storing avocado halves in water won't keep them fresh for long. Doing so could actually put you at risk of ingesting harmful microorganisms. "Fruit halves are not sterile," reads the report. "Even if you peel a fruit, bacteria and fungi can enter through natural openings or microscopic cracks."
> "Water is a great way to transfer bacteria from one area to another, and it's a great medium for bacteria to grow in," says Dr. Ackerley. "Essentially, if you have water on the surface of your food, you're putting yourself at risk because it will make an environment where bacteria can grow."
The FDA advises against this practice.
As you can see, they're not mincing words. "Do not store avocados in water." It goes on to clarify that the practice of storing avocados in water is a food safety hazard and should be avoided.This technique can result in pathogens growing in the avocado.
Bacteria thrive in water, so if the water has possibly unsafe levels of bacteria or pathogens, then submerging your avocado will create an environment that's even more hospitable to bacteria growth. The bacteria will grow on your avocado's skin and can even make its way into the flesh itself as it sits in the water. If you eat a contaminated piece of fruit, you know the rest.And while some pathogens are more ideally suited to growing on fruits and vegetables than others, they all like moisture, so food safety experts recommend keeping produce dry unless you're actively prepping it for consumption.
Instead, store your avocado to preserve its freshness and prevent over-ripening.
If you buy an avocado that's still firm and green, you can store it in the fridge for a few days. But to keep it fresher longer, try one of the following tips:- If you're planning on storing your avocado in the fridge for a couple of days before eating, wrap it tightly in a brown paper bag.
- If you're planning on storing your avocado at room temperature, like in a bowl with other fruit, cover it with foil.
- You can also store your avocado in an airtight container with some olive oil poured over the top to keep its flesh from browning prematurely.
- You can also freeze them with skin on or just the flesh.
