Top 5 Food Storage Tips to Reduce Waste
Proper food storage is the key to making your groceries last longer, saving you money and reducing food waste. Here are some essential tips:
- Know What to Refrigerate: Not all produce belongs in the fridge! Tomatoes, onions, garlic, and potatoes should be stored at room temperature. Refrigerating them can ruin their texture and flavor.
- Separate Fruits and Vegetables: Many fruits, like apples, bananas, and avocados, produce ethylene gas as they ripen. This gas can cause nearby vegetables to spoil much faster. Store them separately.
- Use Your Freezer Wisely: The freezer is your best friend for long-term storage. You can freeze bread, raw meat, cooked leftovers, and even milk. Just be sure to use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Store Herbs Like Flowers: Treat fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro like a bouquet of flowers. Trim the stems and place them in a jar with an inch of water. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate.
- First In, First Out (FIFO): When you buy new groceries, move the older items to the front of your pantry or fridge. This ensures you use them up before they expire.
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