When the guac craving calls, you’ll be ready.

Leave it on your countertop or in the pantry and let it do its thing.

This method also comes in handy for other fruits, such aspeaches, mangoes, plums, ortomatoes.

A slices avocado on a textured wooden surface

Photo: Westend61/Getty Images

So why does the paper bag trick work?

Ripening is the result of fruit releasing a gas called ethylene, which effectively starts the process of decay.

It’s also triggered by heat.Placing an avocado in a paper bag allows the ethylene to get to work.

Simply place yourripe avocadoin the fridge.

Thecooler temperaturewill slow the effects of ethylene gas.

The main takeaway here is to plan ahead.

When you’re in thegrocery store, think about when you’d like to enjoy your avocado.

Pott DM, Vallarino JG, Osorio S.Metabolite Changes during Postharvest Storage: Effects on Fruit Quality Traits.Metabolites.