Proper food storage is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste, save money and make the most of what you already have. In this guide, we’ll share Fresh Takes on storing everyday foods so they stay fresh longer. With a few small changes, Franklin County households can save up to $500 a year just by cutting down on food spoilage.
HOW TO STORE FOOD PROPERLY
Fruits:
- Refrigerate: Most fruits do best when stored in the refrigerator – except for bananas and stone fruit.
- Humidity control: Most fruits do best in low humidity – except for strawberries and watermelons.
- Manage moisture: Excess moisture promotes mold growth, so don’t wash fruits until you’re ready to use.
Vegetables:
- Leafy greens: Store in moisture-resistant bags or containers to keep them fresh. Root vegetables: Store in a cool, dark place away from sunlight.
- Humidity control: Most vegetables do best in the high-humidity drawer of the fridge.
- Revive: Bring your limp veggies back to life by soaking in ice water for 10 minutes.
Dairy, Eggs & Bread:
- Temperature: Keep your fridge at 40°F to prevent spoiling.
- Label myths: Date labels on dairy milk and yogurt often suggest a product is no good much earlier than when the taste changes. If it looks, smells and tastes good, it most likely is.
- Extend your bread: Bread on the counter has the shortest lifespan. Keep it in the fridge to extend freshness or freeze for later use.
Leftovers:
- Store properly: Store in airtight containers and eat within 3-4 days.
- Freeze it: Freezing leftovers can extend their shelf life for several months.
Download the Food Storage Guide for a fresh take on storing common foods for optimal freshness, so you waste less and enjoy more.
Additional Benefits of Proper Food Storage
- Prevent spoilage: Storing food properly helps keep it fresh longer, reducing waste.
- Save money: Proper storage ensures you get the most out of your food, reducing your food waste and cutting down on unnecessary expenses.
- Conserve resources: Proper storage minimizes the environmental impact of food waste, conserving valuable resources.
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Storing food properly is the key to reducing waste and getting the most out of every meal. Follow Fresh Takes for more expert storage tips, simple recipes and clever ways to keep your food fresh longer at SaveMoreThanFood.org/FreshTakes.