REFRIGERATE IT: After ripe

AT FRESHEST: Whole, 2 to 3 days past ripe on counter; 5 to 7 days in refrigerator

OPTIMAL STORAGE: If unripe, store whole on the counter at room temperature. Once ripe, store loose on a refrigerator shelf or in the low-humidity drawer. If cut, place in an airtight container. Mangoes and papayas are often already ripe when sold, in which case refrigerate immediately. Pineapples will turn gold and then almost brown, but their sugars do not increase or ripen further.

FREEZING: Peel and cut into chunks. Place separated on a baking sheet and freeze, then transfer to an airtight container.