5 Foods You Should Never Refrigerate for Better Health

Many people unknowingly store certain foods in the refrigerator that can be harmful to their health. Nutritionist Simrat Kathuria has identified five items that should be kept out of the fridge, including tomatoes, fruit juice, ginger-garlic paste, leftover dough, and sliced lemons. Each of these foods can lose flavor, nutrients, or even become unsafe when refrigerated. Learn how to properly store these items to maintain their quality and health benefits.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 8, 2025, 14:45 IST

Foods to Avoid Storing in the Refrigerator

Understanding Refrigerator Storage: Refrigerators are essential for preserving food freshness and preventing spoilage. However, many individuals mistakenly refrigerate certain items that can actually be detrimental to health. Nutritionist Simrat Kathuria recently highlighted five specific foods that should not be kept in the refrigerator through a video on her Instagram account. Let’s explore these items...

1. Tomatoes
While nearly everyone places tomatoes in the fridge, nutritionist Simrat warns against this practice. Refrigeration can diminish the flavor and destroy lycopene, an antioxidant responsible for the fruit's red hue and its heart health benefits. It’s best to store tomatoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

2. Fruit Juice
Many people tend to keep leftover fruit juice in the refrigerator for extended periods. However, this can pose health risks. Fresh juice is always preferable, and if storage is necessary, it’s recommended to freeze it instead.

3. Ginger-Garlic Paste
According to the nutritionist, ginger-garlic paste should be frozen rather than refrigerated. Keeping it in the fridge can promote bacterial growth, heightening the risk of foodborne illnesses. Remember this tip when storing your ginger-garlic paste.

4. Leftover Dough
After preparing rotis (flatbreads), many people place leftover dough in the refrigerator, which can lead to fermentation. This process can cause gas and bloating, making it advisable to avoid consuming rotis made from refrigerated dough.

5. Sliced Lemons
Sliced lemons tend to oxidize, making refrigeration a poor choice. If you have excess sliced lemons, consider juicing them and freezing the juice in an ice tray for future use.

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