Fruit is one of those items in your kitchen that you have to eat pretty quickly or it’ll soon go off and avocado is no exception. A ripened avocado will typically last around two days before it starts to turn brown and mushy, and this browning will happen even faster once you’ve cut into it. Once an avocado is cut and exposed to the air it begins an oxidisation process that causes the flesh to start browning, but the good news is it’s possible to slow this process down. According to food experts, one of the simplest and easiest ways to do this is simply to brush the avocado with some orange juice.
Orange juice contains citric acid, an antioxidant that inhibits a natural enzyme in avocados called polyphenol oxidase, which is what produces the brown pigment when it reacts with oxygen in the air. But by brushing the avocado flesh with a layer of orange juice, this effectively creates a barrier that will keep it fresh and green for longer.
The Spruce Eats explains: “The acidic pH of citric acid makes it useful as a food preservative and preserves the color of the food since it significantly slows the oxidation.”
It adds: “Simply squeezing a small amount of fresh citrus juice over your avocado or guacamole will keep the avocado from browning for at least a day.”
While other citrus fruits, like lemon or lime, are often recommended as they are more acidic, orange juice is another option you can turn to. Plus it will add a slight sweetness and acidity to the avocado that complements its creamy texture.
The Avocado Cookbook says: “Avocados discolour quickly and easily when they are cut open and exposed to the air. You can delay this oxidisation process by sprinkling the cut flesh with a little lemon or lime juice. Otherwise, prepare them at the last minute just before serving.
“Cut them in half lengthways and discard the stone. Either scoop out the flesh with a teaspoon or carefully remove the peel and cut into neat slices or cubes. If you’re going to fill the avocados or eat them as they are, brush the surface lightly with lemon, lime or even orange juice.”
Once the avocado flesh has been brushed with orange juice, experts recommend wrapping it tightly in cling film and then storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before eating.