{
  "checked_on": "2026-10-12",
  "title": "Whole, ripe or already cut?",
  "deck": [
    "Ripening and refrigeration are separate tasks.",
    "Use the stage to choose the next action."
  ],
  "eyebrow": "REDBERI \u00b7 HOUSEHOLD PRODUCE GUIDE",
  "output": "tomato-storage-decision.svg",
  "categories": [
    {
      "category": "Whole / unripe",
      "decision": "Ripen at room temperature",
      "detail": "Check often; light is not required."
    },
    {
      "category": "Whole / fully ripe",
      "decision": "Use soon or hold in the fridge",
      "detail": "Refrigeration can affect flavour."
    },
    {
      "category": "Sliced or halved",
      "decision": "Refrigerate promptly",
      "detail": "Use a clean covered container."
    }
  ],
  "sources": [
    "https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/gardening-in-minnesota/growing-tomatoes",
    "https://ask.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=281409",
    "https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/selecting-and-serving-produce-safely"
  ],
  "footer": [
    "Extension; FDA \u00b7 Checked 12 October 2026.",
    "Sourced handling rules; no measured freshness or toxin scale."
  ],
  "limitations": "Qualitative guidance; no fixed shelf life, contamination or toxin measurement."
}