How to Store Fresh Fruits and Vegetables So They Last Longer Story

Whether you’re planning your weekly meals or getting prepared for power outages or emergencies, proper food storage is a useful skill. In the end, storing food properly will keep it usable and fresh for as long as possible.

When it comes to food storage, we try to avoid plastic. There are plenty of zero waste ways to use jars, reusable cloth bags, mesh bags, or glass or silicone containers.

Paper bags and cartons work, too. And if you must opt for plastic, be sure to wash and reuse when possible. Stackable glass storage containers are our favorites for sliced veggies/fruits and for leftovers because you can actually SEE what you have.

Start With a Plan One of the best ways to make sure you don’t waste food is to create a plan. Whether you’re a gardener who has to plan ahead for harvesting and preserving or just trying to keep yourself (and your family) fed for a week, a plan is essential.

How to Store Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Wash and Dry Thoroughly Rinse foods carefully to make sure there is no dirt, mud, or other plants and bugs in the bundle. Dry them by swaddling in a tea towel, paper towels, or use a salad spinner. Traces of humidity can help keep some fruits and veggies fresh.

Tomatoes Keep tomatoes on the counter. A counter near a window is an ideal spot so they can ripen to perfection in the sunlight.

Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes Store your starchy vegetables in a cool, dry, dark place to keep them from sprouting (caused by sunlight and moisture).

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