Health begins with proper nutrition, and at the heart of nutrition lies fresh fruits and vegetables. Although we all know this, we’re not always great at keeping our produce fresh.
Each year, Turkey alone discards fresh produce worth around 214 billion lira due to spoilage, much of which could be avoided with better storage practices. Here are a few simple steps to extend the life of your vegetables and reduce waste:
Dry Your Produce
The biggest enemy of fresh produce is moisture, which accelerates decay. When you bring fruits and vegetables home, remove any ties or packaging and allow them to air-dry for a couple of hours before refrigerating.Store Without Washing
Washing everything before placing it in the fridge is a common habit, but leafy greens should be the exception. Washing greens beforehand can reduce their shelf life by up to 50%.Know Your Exceptions
Certain herbs like parsley, mint, and dill need some moisture but only in the stems, not the leaves. For these herbs, place a slightly damp cloth in a container and stand the stems upright, with leaves facing upwards. Keep the cloth damp and remove any wilted leaves regularly.Cloth Bags from Tradition
Grandparents knew the secrets to preserving freshness, one of which is cloth bags. Wrapping vegetables in clean cloth bags or cloth sheets can extend their life up to three weeks.Glass Containers for Health
For those who prefer glass containers, start by lining the bottom with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Place unwashed, dry vegetables inside, cover with another paper towel, and seal with plastic wrap.Keep Warm-Loving Veggies Out of the Fridge
Some vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, are sensitive to cold. Lay them out on a flat tray with their stems facing up, keeping them at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
Following these simple steps can help preserve the freshness of your fruits and vegetables, saving both time and money.
