Most people do not know how to preserve oranges, but they love them. The refreshing, zesty flavour and rich nutritional content are why people enjoy them. Fortunately, their thick outer peels provide natural protection, allowing them to resist spoilage for a long time. Nevertheless, understanding how to store oranges can enhance their shelf life and preserve their delicious taste. Whether you enjoy eating them as a nutritious, vitamin C-packed snack or including them in various recipes, knowing how to store oranges can ensure their freshness and enhance the flavours they bring to your culinary creations. This guide explores the best ways to preserve oranges, enabling you to savour their best for longer while enjoying their versatile potential. potential.

How to Preserve Oranges – 5 Best Ways

Oranges can be delicious but last a short season. However, you can learn how to preserve oranges with the following methods.

1. Freezing

To store whole oranges, you can use a zip-top freezer bag. Before sealing the bag, make sure to squeeze out all the air. Then, place the bag in the freezer, Then, place the bag in the freezer, where the oranges can last for up to a year. However, it’s important to note that the juiciness and vitamin content of the oranges may decrease over time in the freezer, and the fruit itself may become harder. Although the oranges will still be edible, their freshness will diminish after a few months. 

2. Refrigeration

Preserving oranges in a refrigerator keeps your oranges fresh for about a month. If you are also looking for how to keep oranges from ripening too fast, you can try this method.

To carry out this process, put them in a mesh bag or perforated plastic bag to allow some airflow. Another option is to keep them in the crisper drawer.  Crisper drawers are the best spot in your fridge for keeping oranges. 

You can also store your cut oranges in an airtight container. However, this is not the best way to preserve oranges because a cut orange would not last very long. Cover the cut orange with plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container to prevent spoilage. You can put it in the refrigerator and try to use or eat it within a week to enjoy it at its best.

Another method is the use of a zip-top freezer bag. Before sealing the bag, make sure to squeeze out all the air. Then, place the bag in the freezer, Then, place the bag in the freezer, where the oranges can last for up to a year. However, it’s important to note that the juiciness and vitamin content of the oranges may decrease over time in the freezer, and the fruit itself may become harder. Although the oranges will still be edible, their freshness will diminish after a few months. 

3. Storing at Room Temperature

This method is one of the most common ways to preserve oranges, especially if you plan to consume the oranges within a few days. All you need to do is store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Do not expose them to direct sunlight or heat sources so they do not spoil.

Display the oranges in a fruit bowl or basket that allows for good air circulation. Keep them separate from other fruits to prevent them from spoiling fast. Check them regularly for any signs of spoilage and remove any damaged or overripe ones. 

4. Juicing – How To Preserve Oranges 

Another method for preserving your fresh oranges is by juicing. You can squeeze oranges to get their juice and keep it in the fridge for about two weeks. One of the proven methods to preserve orange juice for a long time is by freezing it. With this method, oranges can last for several months. To freeze, pour the freshly squeezed juice into ice cube trays and let it freeze completely. Then, you can transfer the juice cubes into freezer bags for easy storage.

5. Dehydration

Preserving oranges by dehydration is a delightful experience! You can use dried orange slices to add flavour to soups and drinks like tea or as mulling spices. To dehydrate, you will have to wash, dry your oranges and slice them up. Arrange orange slices on dehydrator trays (you can also use an oven for this). Ensure that there is enough space between the oranges for air to circulate. Set the dehydrator to 135°F. Check the slices after 2 hours. To facilitate the drying process, consider flipping the orange slices. Depending on the thickness, drying can take 3 to 7 hours. Make sure the slices are dry. Cool the dried orange slices and store them in mason jars to keep them fresh.

Conclusion – How To Preserve Oranges

Preserving oranges is not often considered because they are always eaten fresh. However, You might want to think about preserving your oranges if you won’t be using them for about two weeks. This would help increase the shelf life of your orange and keep it fresh for as long as you desire.

You can always use your preferred method for preserving your oranges above. If you choose to preserve your fresh oranges by juicing, check out this list of The Best Juicer Under N40,000. You should also visit our Fruit Garden store for your fresh, juicy and delicious orange.