The journey from the market to your plate can sometimes be a race against time, with fruits and vegetables facing the inevitability of deterioration. However, with a few simple strategies, you can extend the life of your produce and savour the flavours and nutrients they offer. Here are some practical tips to slow the deterioration of fruits and vegetables, ensuring that each bite is as fresh and vibrant as the day you brought them home.
Strategic Storage:
Most fruits and vegetables benefit from refrigeration. The cold temperature slows down the enzymatic processes that lead to ripening and decay. You can store your fruit and veggies in Fresh & Crisp bags and pop them straight into the crisper.
Ethylene Awareness:
Separate Ethylene Producers and Sensitive Items: Some fruits release ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent. Keep ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas away from ethylene-sensitive vegetables, such as leafy greens and berries, to prevent accelerated deterioration.
Proper Ventilation:
Use Fresh & Crisp bags which are designed to prolong the life of your fruit and vegetables by drawing out the gasses which cause food to deteriorate, effectively allowing your fruits and vegetables to breathe.
Mindful Washing:
Washing fruits and vegetables before storage might seem like a time-saver, but excess moisture can accelerate deterioration. Instead, pop them into your Fresh & Crisp bags and wait to wash produce until just before consumption.
Selective Refrigeration:
Some fruits, like tomatoes and avocados, are best kept at room temperature until they ripen. Refrigerating them prematurely can affect their texture and flavour. Understand the specific needs of each item and store accordingly.
Storage Partnerships:
Some fruits and vegetables can be stored together because they emit similar gases during ripening. For example, apples and carrots can coexist peacefully in the same storage space.
Invest in Fresh-Keeping Tools:
Fresh & Crisp storage bags are designed to significantly slow down the deterioration process by creating a controlled environment that minimises exposure to external elements. The scientifically produced film is proven to prolong freshness for up to 3 weeks so the cost of the bags is far outweighed by the reduction of waste, not to mention the increased nutrient retention.
Quick Consumption of Perishables:
First In, First Out: Practice a “first in, first out” approach when consuming perishable items. Use the oldest produce first to minimize waste and ensure that nothing gets forgotten in the depths of your refrigerator. Preserving the freshness of your fruits and vegetables is not just a culinary concern; it’s a commitment to minimising waste and maximising the nutritional value of your meals. By adopting these simple yet effective strategies, you can slow down the inevitable deterioration, ensuring that your produce remains a source of delight and nourishment for as long as possible. So, let’s embark on this journey of mindful storage and enjoy the bounty of nature at its freshest best!
