How to Store Mangoes to Keep Them Fresh Longer

Mangoes are a beloved fruit around the world, with a staggering 55 million tons produced annually. While available year-round, their peak season runs from May to September. During this time, you can often find great deals on mangoes at the grocery store. To make the most of this sweet and affordable fruit, proper storage is key. Here are our top tips to help you keep fresh mangoes for up to six months.

How to Store Whole Mangoes

Once you buy mangoes, store them at room temperature. This allows them to continue ripening, becoming softer and more fragrant. To speed up the ripening process, you can place them in a paper bag on the counter with an apple or banana. The ethylene gas released by these fruits will help the mangoes mature. Only refrigerate mangoes once they’re fully ripe; putting them in the fridge too early will slow down the ripening process.

How to Store Cut Mangoes

If you’ve already cut your mango into chunks or slices, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Before eating, always check the mango carefully for a fresh scent and make sure it doesn’t smell sour or feel slimy. When in doubt, toss it out.

Can You Freeze Mangoes?

Yes, absolutely! Mangoes freeze beautifully, and frozen mango is a delicious addition to smoothies, desserts, and cocktails. Here’s how to freeze them:

1. Start with a ripe fruit and cut the flesh into slices or chunks.
2. Place these pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other, then freeze them overnight.
3. Once the fruit is frozen solid, gently remove it from the parchment and transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Label and date the bag. We recommend using frozen mango within six months.

How to Thaw Frozen Mangoes

We love using frozen mango chunks straight from the freezer. However, if you need to thaw them, the best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight to defrost slowly. If you’re in a hurry, you can run the bag under cold water until thawed.

Keep in mind that thawed mango won’t have the same firm texture as fresh mango. Because of this, we recommend using it in baked goods, fruit pies, or smoothies.

How to Choose a Ripe Mango

When buying mangoes, don’t just go by color; it’s not an accurate indicator of the fruit’s ripeness. Instead, pick up the mango and give it a gentle squeeze. A ripe mango will yield slightly when pressed. Using your nose is also a great way to tell ripeness. A ripe mango will give off a strong, fruity aroma.

Do you have any favorite mango recipes you’d like to try with your perfectly stored mangoes?