Have you recently bought soursop (also called graviola) fruits in Kenya and are wondering how to store them? Storing soursop properly helps keep it fresh and tasty. Here’s how to do it depending on whether the fruit is ripe or unripe. Below is a complete guide on how to safely store soursop fruits in Kenya.

Tips on Storing Soursop Fruits in Kenya: A Complete Guide

1. Identify the Ripeness

• Unripe soursop: Hard to the touch, green in color, no strong aroma.
  
• Ripe soursop: Soft (slightly gives when pressed gently), may have some yellowish or light spots, fragrant smell.
  

2. Storing Unripe Soursop

• Temperature: Keep at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F).
  
• Location: Place on a countertop or fruit bowl, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  
• Purpose: This allows the fruit to naturally ripen over several days (usually 3-5 days).
  
• Check regularly: Press gently every day to monitor softness and aroma.
  

3. Storing Ripe Soursop

• Refrigeration: Once ripe, soursop should be stored in the refrigerator to slow spoilage.
  
• Packaging: Place the fruit in a perforated plastic bag, breathable container, or loosely wrap in a paper towel to avoid moisture buildup and mold.
  
• Shelf life: Consume within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and freshness.
  
• Do not wash before refrigerating; moisture promotes spoilage. Wash just before eating.
  

4. Long-Term Storage (Freezing)

If you’re considering storing soursop fruits in Kenya for a longer period, freezing is a great option:

• Preparation:
  
  • Cut open the ripe fruit.
    
  • Scoop out the soft pulp using a spoon.
    
  • Remove all seeds carefully.
    
• Packaging:
  
  • Place the pulp in airtight freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags.
    
  • Squeeze out excess air from bags before sealing.
    
• Freezing:
  
  • Label with the date and store in the freezer.
    
  • Frozen soursop pulp can last 3-6 months.
    
• Usage:
  
  • Use directly in smoothies, desserts, or juices without thawing fully.
    

5. Additional Tips On Storing Soursop Fruits In Kenya

• Avoid stacking: When storing ripe fruits in the fridge, avoid stacking them to prevent bruising.
  
• Avoid excess moisture: Moisture can cause mold and rot, so keep soursop dry during storage.
  
• Ripening aid: If you want to speed up ripening, place unripe soursop in a paper bag with a banana or apple; these fruits emit ethylene gas which accelerates ripening.

Final Thoughts

Alphaveggies is a trusted source for fresh, high-quality soursop fruits in Nairobi, Kenya. Known for our careful selection and timely delivery, Alphaveggies ensures you get high quality and flavorful soursop straight from the farm.

Plus, the storage guide above provides helpful tips on storing soursop fruits in Kenya—whether you’re keeping them fresh for a few days or freezing the pulp for later use. Alphaveggies offers reliable service and fresh produce that meets your expectations.