Many would agree that the perfect orange is equal parts tart and juicy, with plump segments encased in a firm peel.

But that’s not always the case when you go to eat an orange purchased from the supermarket a few days earlier.

Dried-out, watery-tasting segments are all too common. However, as much as an orange’s juiciness has to do with storage, its quality also hinges on its condition at the time of purchase.

For this reason, it’s important to first select the right oranges. The freshest kind are usually a bright colour, have thinner skin, and a more solid feel.

Cassie Howard, based at Sunkist – a citrus growers cooperative – told Martha Stewart: “Choose a firm, heavy orange when buying as they tend to be juicier.”

As for where to store your choice of supermarket oranges, a fruit bowl isn’t inherently a bad place for them. However, Cassie said this shouldn’t be a long-term solution.

She suggests that oranges can be stored at room temperature, out of direct sunlight for a few days, but they “prefer a cool, dark environment”.

Cassie claimed: “Oranges stay fresh the longest if stored in a refrigerator’s crisper drawer because the cold temperatures slow down ripening and preserves freshness.”

Riley Davies, a manager at Misfits Market – an online grocer – said that the ideal temperature for citrus fruit is between 40F and 45F (around 4.4C to 7.2C).

This is likely colder than the countertop in your kitchen and warmer than the fridge, but the latter is the preferred option.

Moreover, oranges purchased in mesh bags can be stored directly in the crisper drawer. It is generally best to keep them unwashed until right before they are consumed.

The mesh bag is good for managing airflow and preventing moisture buildup. Large oranges placed into plastic bags should be placed loose in the drawer, but ensure they have plenty of room as tightly compacted fruit can encourage mould growth.

Oranges emit a small amount of ethylene gas, so they shouldn’t come in contact with apples and bananas, which may prompt spoilage. They are suitably stored with avocados, lemons, and other citrus fruits.

Riley said bringing oranges back to room temperature can help before tucking them fresh from the fridge. She claimed the fruit’s flavour would be “more intense” and much juicier if served cold.

Like lemons and limes, rolling oranges just before slicing them up can counteract the coldness and “rupture” some of the juice sacs, which is great for the overall texture.