Fruit storage: why it differs depending on type and ripeness
Stone fruits should be kept at room temperature to avoid cold damage that dries them out, while berries withstand refrigeration well and should be kept cold to prolong their life.
Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, plums, and cherries contain a hard pit in the center. Keeping them cold can worsen their condition. At temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, they suffer chilling injury, causing them to dry out instead of remaining juicy. The flesh becomes mealy and brown in some areas. The cold temperature also halts the ripening process.
Berries, on the other hand, should be kept in the refrigerator. They don't spoil at low refrigerator temperatures, so there's no risk. Furthermore, they are sold fully ripe, so there's no need to try to ripen them further by leaving them out. Heat won't produce delicious juices; it will only spoil the berries.
If you buy a large container of berries, check them before storing and remove any damaged ones; this prevents unpleasant surprises and stops the spread of bacteria and mold. Don't rinse the berries before storing them; just wash them shortly before eating them. If you already have ripe stone fruit but won't be eating it right away, you can keep it refrigerated for a day or two, or freeze it completely for cooking and baking.