We know what you’re thinking: orange juice tastes great ice cold and straight from the fridge. However, oranges and other citrus fruits should never be kept in the refrigerator. The reasons for this are similar to tropical fruits.

Oranges, like many other citrus fruits, are grown in hot climates, and the warmth of your kitchen actually helps them ripen naturally. Storing them in a fridge can prevent this natural ripening process, leaving them hard, dry, and potentially bitter. To keep them at their best, store them at room temperature in your kitchen where they can continue to ripen and maintain their natural sweetness.