Store different produce based on their specific needs. Not everything goes in the fridge. Tomatoes, whole melons, winter squash, onions, garlic and potatoes last longer and taste better when stored in a cool, dry place outside the refrigerator.
Use your refrigerator crisper drawers wisely. This is the best spot for most other fruits and veggies. Always remove tight rubber bands or packaging first to let air circulate, and avoid sealing produce tightly in plastic, which can trap damaging moisture.
Manage moisture carefully. Some items, like berries, need to stay dry (store them in a container with a towel). Others, like cut carrots, celery and soft herbs (e.g., cilantro and parsley), need moisture and stay crisp longer when stored with their stems in water or submerged in it.
Keep certain items separate. Store potatoes and onions apart, as onions cause potatoes to sprout. Also, keep apples away from other fruits in the fridge, as they release a gas that speeds up ripening.
Handle cut produce differently. Once any fruit or vegetable is cut, it must be refrigerated. For items like winter squash, remember to scoop out the seeds before storing the unused half to prevent spoilage.
In the quest for a healthier diet, you fill your kitchen with vibrant fruits and vegetables, only to watch helplessly as they wilt, mold or soften far too soon. This common frustration is more than a hit to your wallet; it’s a missed opportunity for proper nutrition.
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