Avoid the fridge: Three foods that turn toxic when chilled
Photo: What products cannot be stored in the refrigerator (freepik.com)
The refrigerator is an essential appliance in every home. It might seem logical to store anything in it, but that’s not entirely true. Some foods can even become toxic when kept at low temperatures. Strona Zdrowia shares which three foods should never be refrigerated.
Which foods should not be stored in the refrigerator?
Dietitian Janhavi Sanghvi highlighted three vegetables that should never be refrigerated: onions, garlic, and potatoes. Improper storage of these can lead to food poisoning.
Symptoms of food poisoning:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- mild fever
- weakness
- headache
Although food poisoning usually resolves quickly, it can last several days. If any concerning symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately.
Why shouldn’t onions be refrigerated?
Storing onions in the fridge can cause them to develop mold and become mushy due to excess moisture. Consuming spoiled onions may result in digestive issues. This is because mold on food can produce mycotoxins, toxic chemicals that can cause illnesses.
To keep onions fresh and safe, store them in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a kitchen cupboard.
Garlic faces similar risks in the refrigerator.
“Refrigerated garlic may sprout and turn rubbery, losing its flavor and potency. It can develop a bitter taste and harmful molds or fungi that pose health risks,” the dietitian explained.
Potatoes are also unsafe for refrigeration.
Cooling potatoes converts their starch into sugar, resulting in a sweeter taste and grainy texture. According to Sanghvi, cooking such potatoes at high temperatures can produce acrylamide, a potentially harmful compound.
Read about 6 healthy winter fruits that should be eaten during the season.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
