Tips for Extending the Freshness of Fruits and Vegetables: Prevent Food Waste!

It is important to store fruits and vegetables correctly to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Extending the shelf life of these healthy products can not only reduce food waste, but also provide tasty meals and snacks. In this blog, I will share some useful tips and tricks to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.

1. Store at the correct temperature

One of the most important factors in maintaining freshness is temperature. Most fruits and vegetables do best at refrigerator temperatures between 1 and 5 degrees Celsius. Here are some general guidelines:

• Store tomatoes, bananas, potatoes and onions outside the refrigerator, as they lose their flavor and texture at cold temperatures.
• Place vegetables such as leafy greens, peppers, cucumbers and berries in the refrigerator.
• Fruits such as apples, pears, and citrus fruits can be stored in the refrigerator, but be aware that some varieties are sensitive to cold.

2. Use proper storage methods

Different types of fruits and vegetables require different storage methods:

• Leafy greens: Place them in an airtight bag or container with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Berries: Remove any damaged specimens and store in an airtight container, preferably lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
• Root vegetables: Remove the foliage, store in a damp paper bag in the refrigerator.
• Citrus fruits: Store them in the refrigerator or in a cool, dark place.

3. Take ethylene production into account

Some fruits and vegetables produce ethylene gas, which can accelerate the ripening of other products. Be aware of this and store ethylene-producing and ethylene-sensitive products separately. Examples of ethylene-producing products are apples, bananas and tomatoes, while ethylene-sensitive products include broccoli, lettuce and strawberries.

4. Check regularly

Check your fruits and vegetables regularly for signs of spoilage. Remove damaged or rotten ones quickly to prevent them from contaminating other products.

5. Use the freezer

If you find that your fruits and vegetables are ripening and you can’t eat them in the short term, consider freezing them. Blanch vegetables shortly before freezing to maintain freshness.

6. Make use of stock and canned goods

Another way to keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer is to pickle, preserve or stock them. This extends their shelf life and allows you to use them whenever you want.

With these tips, you can keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer and enjoy their flavor and nutritional value to the fullest, while also reducing food waste. By using the right storage methods and regularly checking your stock, you can make healthy choices for yourself and the environment.