Avocados make a nutritious and creamy addition to breakfast, but many people store them incorrectly, which can soon diminish their quality.

Knowing how to store them properly can extend their shelf life by twice as long, according to one expert.

This straightforward technique harnesses scientific principles to keep the inside of the avocado fresh for longer, while only using one other ingredient that is easy to find and very cheap.

Karl Graham, a food storage expert at Click Storage, said: “Only a few materials are needed to extend its life and continue enjoying this delicious fruit, all while absorbing its healthy benefits.”

Follow these steps

Step 1: Allow avocados to ripen

Start by letting your avocados ripen at room temperature on your countertop. You can check for ripeness by gently pressing on the skin; a ripe avocado will yield slightly.

Karl shares an additional tip: “If the stem of the avocado can be easily removed from the top of the avocado and the flesh underneath is green, it’s ripe.”

Step 2: Add citrus juice

Once the avocados are ripe, cut them in half and lightly brush the flesh with lime or lemon juice.

The citric acid in citrus juice helps slow oxidation, which is what causes avocados to brown.

“When avocados are exposed to air, enzymes in the fruit react with oxygen, turning the flesh brown,” explains Karl.

"The citric acid in citrus juice helps to inhibit these enzymes, preserving the green colour of the avocado."

Step 3: Use an airtight container

Next, place the avocado halves, coated in citrus juice, into an airtight container.

If you only use one half, keep the one with the seed; this further helps preserve it.

“If the avocado’s not cut, brush some lime or lemon juice on the exterior to help keep it ripe for even longer while in the airtight container,” Karl advises.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Finally, store the container in the refrigerator. The cool environment slows down the ripening process.

Karl notes: “When exposed to cold temperatures, the enzymes responsible for ripening slow down, thus prolonging the shelf life of the avocado.”

This is especially crucial for ripe avocados, as they can quickly become overripe if left out at room temperature.