How to store a papaya?

Here's how to store a papaya, covering both ripe and unripe fruit:

Storing Ripe Papaya

Ripe papayas need to be handled carefully to extend their shelf life. Here's the recommended method:

• Refrigeration: To slow down the ripening process, refrigerate ripe papaya. This is crucial for preserving its quality.
• Plastic Bag: Store the whole ripe papaya in a plastic bag. According to provided reference, it should keep for about a week.

Storing Papaya for Longer Periods: Freezing

If you want to store papaya for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Here's how:

1. Preparation: Cut the papaya into pieces.
2. Packaging: Pack the cut papaya in rigid containers or heavy-duty plastic freezer bags.
3. Sugar Solution: Cover the papaya with a 30% sugar solution (4 cups of water to 2 cups of sugar). This helps to maintain the fruit's texture and flavor during freezing.
4. Freezing Time: Frozen papaya can last for up to 10 months.