Are you tired of constantly throwing away spoiled fruits and vegetables? Do you find yourself unsure of where and how to store your produce? Look no further! We have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to properly store your fruits and vegetables to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
Fruit and Vegetable Storage Chart
First and foremost, it is important to understand which fruits and vegetables should be stored at room temperature vs. in the refrigerator. The chart above provides a helpful reference for this.
For example, bananas, tomatoes, and avocados should be stored at room temperature until they are fully ripe, and then can be transferred to the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process. On the other hand, berries, leafy greens, and most other vegetables should be stored in the refrigerator.
Storage Tips for Fruits and Vegetables
Berries
When you bring home fresh berries, it is important to remove any spoiled berries and transfer them to an airtight container lined with a paper towel. This will help absorb any excess moisture and prevent mold growth.
If you are storing berries for a few days, avoid washing them until you are ready to eat them. Washing berries before storing them can cause them to become mushy and spoil faster.
Leafy Greens
When buying leafy greens, make sure to remove any wilted leaves before storing them to prevent them from spoiling the rest of the bunch.
Before storing, wash and dry the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Once dry, wrap them in paper towels and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and limes can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container.
When storing cut citrus fruits, keep the cut side down on a plate or container to prevent them from drying out.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and potatoes can be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place such as a pantry or cellar. Make sure to remove any greens before storing, as they can suck moisture out of the vegetables and cause them to spoil faster.
If you have leftover chopped or sliced root vegetables, store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes can be stored at room temperature until they are fully ripe, and then can be transferred to the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process. However, if you have already cut into a tomato, it is best to store it in the refrigerator to prevent it from spoiling too quickly.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place such as a pantry or cellar. Make sure to keep them in a well-ventilated area, as storing them in an airtight container can cause them to mold and spoil.
Bananas
Bananas are best stored at room temperature until they are fully ripe. Once they are ripe, you can transfer them to the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process.
To prevent bananas from turning brown too quickly, you can wrap the stems in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to help retain moisture.
Avocados
Similar to bananas, avocados should be stored at room temperature until they are fully ripe. If you want to speed up the ripening process, you can place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana, which will release ethylene gas and help the avocados ripen faster.
Once your avocados are ripe, you can transfer them to the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process and keep them fresh for longer.
By following these storage tips, you can extend the life of your fruits and vegetables and cut down on food waste. Happy storing!
