Avocado is a nutrient-rich fruit loved by many. Besides being delicious, avocado contains healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that are good for the body. Unfortunately, once cut, avocado often quickly turns brown and looks less appealing. This can make you hesitate to save the leftover avocado for later. Don’t worry! You can keep your avocado fresh and beautiful longer with these practical tips! 

Why Does Avocado Turn Brown Easily? 

The browning of cut avocado is caused by oxidation. When the avocado flesh is exposed to air, the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) reacts with phenolic compounds in the avocado and produces brown pigments called melanin. The longer it is exposed to air, the faster the oxidation process happens, causing the avocado to turn brown. 

How to Store Cut Avocado to Prevent Browning 

To keep your cut avocado fresh, prevent it from browning too fast, and still tasty when eaten, try these methods: 

1. Soak Avocado in Cold Water

Fill a container with cold water, then place the avocado pieces cut side down so the entire cut surface is submerged. Store it in the refrigerator.
This method is quite effective in slowing oxidation for a short time. 

But remember, don’t soak the avocado too long because it might become a bit watery. It’s best to soak no longer than 24 hours. 

2. Apply Lemon or Lime Juice

Squeeze some lemon or lime juice and spread it evenly over the surface of the cut avocado. Then wrap tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Why does it work? The citric acid in lemon and lime acts as an antioxidant and slows down the enzyme activity that causes oxidation. 

3. Apply Olive Oil

Lightly brush the surface of the avocado with olive oil, then wrap with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Olive oil forms a physical barrier that blocks air from directly touching the avocado surface, plus it adds a delicious savory note. 

4. Wrap Tightly with Plastic Wrap

Wrap the avocado as tightly as possible with plastic wrap, making sure no air is trapped between the plastic and the fruit surface.
Why is this important? Air is the main cause of oxidation; the less air contact, the longer the avocado stays fresh. 

5. Store Together with Red Onion

Place avocado pieces and red onion pieces in the same airtight container but make sure they don’t touch directly.
Why red onion? Red onion contains sulfur compounds that can inhibit the PPO enzyme, thus slowing down the oxidation process in avocado. 

6. Use Airtight Containers

Store cut avocado in a clean and dry airtight container. This helps reduce the avocado’s contact with air, slowing oxidation. 

Extra Tips to Keep Avocado Fresh Longer 

To prevent your stored avocado from browning quickly and keep it delicious to eat, here are additional tips: 

Choose Avocado That Isn’t Overripe

Overripe avocado browns faster once cut. So pick avocados that are ripe but still firm if you plan to store them. 

Avoid Storing at Room Temperature

Leaving cut avocado out of the fridge speeds up ripening and oxidation, causing quick browning. 

Recognize When Avocado Is No Longer Edible

If the avocado turns very dark brown, becomes slimy, and smells sour, it’s best not to consume it. 

Read More: How to Choose a Good and Ripe Avocado, Ready to Eat!

Make Your Avocado Creamier and Tastier by Adding FiberCreme! 

If you enjoy avocado in smoothies, sauces, or other creamy dishes, try adding FiberCreme! FiberCreme is a versatile high-fiber ingredient that can be an alternative to coconut milk or dairy. With FiberCreme, the texture of avocado becomes creamier and smoother without feeling heavy. 

FiberCreme is also low in sugar, lactose-free, and contains 0mg cholesterol, perfect for those who want to enjoy healthy avocado without worry. Explore more healthy and delicious recipes with FiberCreme on Instagram @FiberCreme_TV or Ellenka’s YouTube channel!