What Foods Require Refrigeration?

Refrigeration was by all accounts was a paramount invention; refrigeration helped to mitigate one of the biggest problems with large scale food production––spoiled food. Instead of leaving food exposed to the elements where it would invariably be decomposed and eventually rot, refrigeration allowed food to be transported over large distances and stored for considerably longer periods of time. The economic implications are very obvious, both for food purveyors and consumers. 

Refrigeration is useful and even necessary for many types of foods, especially certain raw foods that are more prone to going bad. Specifically, meat, poultry, and fish should always be stored in the refrigerator. Certain oils and even some nuts will have a longer shelf life and avoid rancidity for longer if stored in a refrigerator.

Some foods, however, do not necessarily require refrigeration and are often better without it. Furthermore, some foods are more prone to mold when stored in the fridge, and that is worth noting for those on The Kaufmann Diet. The catch is that many fresh foods need to be eaten in a timely manner to maximize nutrition (and taste). 

Which Foods Do Not Require Refrigeration?

There are more that can be added to this list, and just because a food is not on this list does not mean it necessarily requires refrigeration. All of the foods on this list are Kaufmann One or Two Diet-approved, which is noted. 

(Eggs are not included in this list, but eggs are not typically refrigerated in Europe. Supposedly, some of the production techniques in Europe make eggs safer to not keep refrigerated there as opposed to the United States. Since salmonella is a concern, it is always advised to wash eggs thoroughly before cracking/and cooking; consult your licensed healthcare provider if you have concerns over storing eggs.)

Apple Cider Vinegar

Most vinegars require no refrigeration; as a fermented product, ACV is safe to keep in a cool, dark pantry. 

Avocados

Avocados will not ripen as well in a refrigerator. Allow harder avocados to ripen at room temperature, then store in the fridge if you are not ready to eat them immediately. Keep in the fridge after they’ve been cut for them to keep longer. 

Basil

Fresh basil has a tendency to get moldy in the refrigerator. Leave at room temperature and eat within a few days. 

Citrus Fruits 

These include lemons, limes and grapefruit. These do not require refrigeration. 

Fresh Berries

Berries have a tendency to get moldy in the refrigerator. These can safely be left out and enjoyed at room temperature. Freezing berries is fine too and is not thought to affect the nutritional value. 

Garlic

Garlic will keep perfectly fine at room temperature. 

 Honey/Maple Syrup (Kaufman Two, in moderation)

Honey will crystalize in the fridge but remarkably will keep for a very extended period of time. Maple syrup does not need refrigeration either, but it is important make sure no mold is present. 

Oils

Many––if not most––oils like olive oil coagulate in the fridge and do not require refrigeration. Some, however, like flax oil and sesame oil should be refrigerated. 

Onions

Whole nions can be stored at room temperature until they are cut. They should be kept in the fridge if they’ve been cut or diced and eat quickly. 

Peppers

Bell peppers, jalapeños and other peppers can be stored at room temperature until they are chopped. 

Tomatoes 

Whole, fresh tomatoes do not need to be kept in the refrigerator. 

Zucchini/Other Squashes 

These can be stored outside the fridge until they are chopped. 

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