The Genius Way to Keep Avocados From Turning Brown
Nothing ruins the joy of slicing into a perfectly ripe avocado faster than watching it turn brown before your eyes.
That vibrant green hue?
It’s fleeting, thanks to a natural enzyme called polyphenol oxidase, which reacts with oxygen to create an unappetizing brown layer.
But don’t worry—there are simple, genius tricks to keep your avocados fresh and picture-perfect for longer.
Here’s the scoop on why avocados brown and the best hacks to stop it in its tracks.
Why Do Avocados Turn Brown?
The browning process is all about oxidation. Once you cut into an avocado, its flesh is exposed to air, triggering a chemical reaction that transforms its green surface into a dull brown. While this discoloration doesn’t make the fruit unsafe to eat, it’s far from appealing—especially if you’re serving up guacamole at a party or topping your morning toast.
The key to preventing browning? Minimize exposure to oxygen. And luckily, there are several ways to do just that!
The Top Tricks to Keep Avocados Green
1. Add a Citrus Shield
Citrus fruits like lemons and limes are your avocado’s best friends. Their natural antioxidants fight off oxygen exposure like superheroes. Simply brush or squeeze some lemon or lime juice onto the cut surface of your avocado. Then, store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours of freshness. Bonus: The tangy flavor pairs perfectly with avocado!
2. Seal It Tight with Plastic Wrap
Tightly pressing plastic wrap against the surface of the avocado creates a barrier between the fruit and the air. Make sure there are no gaps or bubbles—air is the enemy here! This method works wonders for keeping guacamole fresh, too.
3. Brush with Oil
A light coat of olive or vegetable oil can also block oxygen from reaching the avocado’s flesh. Use a pastry brush or even your finger to apply a thin layer, then store it in an airtight container. This trick keeps your avocado fresh for about a day while adding a subtle richness to its flavor.
4. Store It with Onion
Here’s an unexpected hack: onions release sulfur compounds that slow down oxidation. Place a few slices of red onion in an airtight container and rest your avocado half (cut-side up) on top of them. Don’t worry—the onion flavor won’t overpower your avocado!
5. Leave the Pit In (But Don’t Rely on It Alone)
While leaving the pit in can protect the area directly underneath it, this method does little for the rest of the exposed flesh. Combine this trick with plastic wrap or citrus juice for better results.
What Doesn’t Work (or Isn’t Safe)
Some viral hacks, like submerging avocados in water, might seem clever but come with risks. The FDA warns that water can harbor harmful bacteria on the avocado’s skin, potentially contaminating the fruit over time. Stick to safer methods instead!
The Best Method? A Citrus-Oil Combo!
For maximum freshness, try combining methods: brush your avocado with lemon juice and a light coat of oil before sealing it tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container. This triple-threat approach keeps avocados green and gorgeous for up to two days!
Final Thoughts
Avocados are too delicious (and expensive!) to let them go to waste because of browning. With these simple tips, you can enjoy their creamy goodness without rushing—or sacrificing presentation.