How to Store Fruits and Veggies

How Do I Store My Fruits and Veggies So That They Last As Long As Possible?

Storing fruits and veggies is quick and easy! You can either freeze, refrigerate, or even keep them on the countertop depending on the fruit/veggie. We have included some storage tips and tricks below. Do you have a storage tip you’d like to share? Let us know via facebook or twitter.

visual guide

Download the PDF

In A Cool, Dry Place

Keep bananas, tomatoes, potatoes in a cool, dry area, not in the fridge.

Mushrooms can be kept in a cool, dry place and should only be washed just before use.

Eggplant should be stored in a cool area and used within a couple days of purchase.

Keep potatoes out of the fridge in a cool, dry place with plenty of ventilation.

In The Fridge

Store your apples in the fridge. They soften ten times faster at room temperature.

Most fruits and veggies can be stored in the refrigerator.

A crisper drawer will help protect your produce and keep the moisture in to maintain freshness for longer.

Asparagus should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped with a moist paper towel or you can stand them up in a glass of cold water wrapped with a damp paper towel.

Store carrots in the fridge and peel them when you’re ready to use them.

Plastic bags with tiny vents help keep produce fresh longer by releasing moisture. They are great for grapes, blueberries, cherries or strawberries.

Store berries in the fridge and wash gently before eating or using.

Fresh heads of lettuce should be washed really well with water before refrigerating. Dry the leaves and store them in a clean plastic bag with a few paper towels.

Rhubarb should be wrapped in plastic and stored in the fridge, but it also freezes well.

In The Freezer

Freezing fruits at home is a fast and convenient way to preserve produce at their peak maturity and nutritional quality.

Freezing most vegetables at home is a fast, convenient way to preserve produce at their peak maturity and nutritional quality. Freezing is not recommended for artichokes, Belgian endive, eggplant, lettuce greens, potatoes (other than mashed), radishes, sprouts and sweet potatoes.

Tips:

Peel and freeze your dark bananas in a clean plastic bag. Use them later in baking or for delicious fruit smoothies.

Freeze papaya slices or mangoes on a tray, then store in a clean plastic bag for tasty frozen snacks.

At Room Temperature

Garlic and onions should be kept at room temperature (or cooler) in a well-ventilated area.

Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature and washed just before using.

Mangoes, plums, peaches, and pears can be ripened at room temperature in a brown paper bag and should then be refrigerated for longer storage.

Store pineapple upside down for a day or two at room temperature or in the fridge to allow the sweetness to spread throughout the fruit.

Keep whole melons at room temperature. Cantaloupe can be stored at room temperature, but it will ripen quickly.

For more information download our Home Storage Guide