This Is the Best Way to Store Sumo Citrus, According to Chefs

Sumo Citrus is the sweetest gift winter gives us. We’re all in desperate need of some vitamin C, and these succulent oranges are just the ticket. They’re certainly not the cheapest fruits in the produce aisle, but that’s because they’re a special hybrid of mandarin, satsuma, and navel oranges. The triad of citrus is uniquely bright and undeniably sweet, making for an exciting swap for the regular old oranges we enjoy year-round. Much like ramps or squash blossoms, the short-lived three-month season helps contribute to the Sumo Citrus fandom.

With the high price tag, the last thing we want to do is watch our beautiful mandarins (or, more accurately, shiranui oranges) rot before our eyes. Airtight food containers might be great for keeping cookies fresh and storing rice and grains, but humidity is the last thing this citrus needs. I checked in with professional chefs to get the low-down on Sumo Citrus storage, and the general consensus is that air circulation is key to the orange’s longevity and heat is the enemy. The thick-skinned orange favors cooler temperatures far from sunlight, so chefs and food experts recommend shallow bowls or wooden crates right on the counter. If the tasty oranges aren’t devoured in a few days, it’s best to move them into the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for weeks. 

Industry-Approved Sumo Storage Solutions

Earthwise Reusable Mesh Produce Bags

“The best way to store Sumo Citrus or really any citrus is in a produce bowl on the counter for three to five days and away from heat/sunlight. If you need long-term, in the fridge for two weeks in a breathable bag to avoid moisture accumulation, which can encourage mold growth.” – Steve Schultz, former Chef at Marketplace Café at Nordstrom and Tapas Teatro; Procurement Manager at McCormick & Company

Habau Wooden Stackable Produce Basket

“The best way is to keep in a dark area with good airflow, preferably a wooden crate or something similar. And keep the temperature below or around 10°C [50°F]” – Masa Miyake, Executive Chef at Aomori

Caxxa Countertop Wire Fruit Bowl

“There are a couple of different ways to store Sumo Citrus. If you are going to eat the citrus quickly, it will stay fresh for around one week sitting out at room temperature. However, it is best to have them not sit in direct sunlight, which will speed up spoilage. If you would like to extend the life to one to two weeks, store them in the refrigerator. Pro tip that doesn’t require any fancy gadgets: Store them loosely in a fruit or crisper drawer rather than in a plastic bag, which can trap moisture and create mold.” – Erin Mittelstaedt, CEO at The Fruit Guys

Progressive Prepworks ProKeeper Produce Storage Container Set

“If I plan to use the fruit in the next two to three days, I keep it in a shaded, well‑ventilated bowl on the counter. For anything beyond that, I’ll move them to the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to three or four weeks if handled properly. It’s important not to wash citrus before storing because any leftover moisture can encourage mold; instead, wash them right before prepping. The Progressive Produce Pro Keeper is a great choice in the fridge because it has a tray that keeps excess moisture away from the fruit, preventing early rot.” – Mark McShane, Chef and Founder of Food Safety Expert