Ripening and Storing Mangos

Learn how to judge ripeness, so you can always use the perfect mango in your dish.  

To get the most from your mangoes adventures, you will want to know how to choose, ripen and store your mangoes once you get them home. 
The first step is choosing great mangoes.you will want to choose mangoes based on its firmness and when you plan to eat it. 

How to choose Mangoes?

• Don’t focus on color. It is not  the best indicator of ripeness. 
• Squeeze the mango gently, A ripe mango will give slightly. 
• Use your experience with the produce such as peaches or avocados which also become softer as they ripen. 
• Ripe mangoes will sometimes have a fruity aroma at their stem ends.
• The red color that appears on some varieties is not an indicator of ripeness. Always judge by feel. 

Ripening and Storing Mangoes

• Keep unripe mangoes at room temperature. Mangoes shouldn’t be refrigerated before they are ripe.
• Mango will continue to ripen at room temperature, becoming sweeter and softer over several days. 
• Once ripe, mangoes should be moved to the refrigerator, which will slow down the ripening process. Whole ripe mangoes may be stored for up to five days in the refrigerator. 
• Mangoes may be peeled, cubed and placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days or in the freezer for up to six months.  

 Handling and Cutting Mangoes

• Always use a clean knife and cutting board to cut a mango. 
• If you have handled or cut any type of mean or seafood, ALWAYS sanitize your hands, work area, utensils and cutting board before handling or cutting any fruits or vegetables including mangoes. 
• Always wash mangoes before cutting.