Some fruits may be ripened after they are picked. Ripen these fruits at room temperature: Avocados, papayas, bananas, persimmons, cantaloupe, honeydew, mango, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums, pineapples and tomatoes.

Speed up ripening by placing fruit in a paper bag. Punch several holes in the bag. Place bag on kitchen counter or shelf at room temperature. Check daily.

Rinsed, cut-up fruit should be refrigerated in a sealed container.

Ripened fruit can spoil quickly, even in the refrigerator. Check daily.