Reduce food spoilage by storing fruits and vegetables so that they stay fresh for as long as possible. Some things keep best in the refrigerator, while other foods are better stored at room temperature or in a cool pantry.
Room Temperature/Cool Pantry
- Bananas, other tropical fruits (mangos, papayas, pineapples)
- Basil
- Winter squash
- Garlic, onion, potatoes (store potatoes and onions separately)
Refrigerator
- Apples - keep for much longer and stay crisp in the fridge
- Berries, grapes
- Ginger - keeps best in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer
- Most vegetables
To keep produce fresh for longer, organize your fridge by temperature.
Sources and Additional Resources
Fruit and Vegetable Storage Guide (US EPA/City of Palo Alto) - Printable guide
A-Z Food Storage Tips (Eureka Recycling, Minneapolis) - Extensive list of tips for storing fruits, vegetables, and dairy
Next tip: Don't mix-n-match. Love food? Keep it fresh.
