Keeping fruits and vegetables fresh is one of the biggest struggles in every household. You go grocery shopping, fill your fridge with beautiful produce, and within a few days, some of it is already wilted or spoiled. The truth is, every fruit and vegetable has its own storage needs. By learning the right methods, you can extend freshness, reduce waste, and save money.
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind produce storage, practical storage hacks, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Food waste is a global issue—millions of tons of fruits and vegetables are thrown away every year. At home, poor storage is often the main reason. Not only is spoiled produce bad for your wallet, but it also impacts your nutrition. Fresh produce that is stored correctly keeps its vitamins, minerals, and taste for longer.
The Role of Ethylene Gas
Many fruits release a natural gas called ethylene that speeds up ripening. Some produce is highly sensitive to this gas, meaning if you store them together, they’ll spoil faster.
Ethylene producers (keep separate):
Apples
Bananas
Avocados
Pears
Mangoes
Tomatoes
Ethylene sensitive foods:
Broccoli
Carrots
Leafy greens
Cucumbers
Potatoes
👉 Always separate ethylene-producing fruits from sensitive vegetables to avoid premature ripening.
Best Practices for Refrigerator Storage
see next page 💕👇
