Debate continues on the best way to store tomatoes: fridge or room temperature? Researchers from the University of Göttingen tested ripe tomatoes through the full commercial supply chain. Their verdict: no noticeable taste differences—tomato variety matters far more.
They evaluated flavor traits in new varieties using a trained sensory panel of experts who assessed sweetness, acidity, juiciness, and more. Accounting for the entire post-harvest process, refrigeration versus room temperature storage showed no significant taste variations.
"Tomato variety strongly influences flavor, so developing appealing new ones can boost quality," says lead author Larissa Kanski. Professor Elke Pawelzik, department head, adds: "Shorter storage always helps taste, but brief refrigeration of ripe tomatoes has no effect when considering the full chain."
