Proper food storage is a crucial aspect of keeping your meals fresh and delicious. Most homeowners store their perishables in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for as long as possible.

While there are certain foods that need to be refrigerated to maintain their freshness, others do not fare as well in cold temperatures.

Confused about which perishables should go in the fridge? Here’s a comprehensive list of foods that should be stored in the fridge to keep them fresh for longer:.

Fruits and Vegetables

Most fresh fruits and vegetables can be kept at room temperature until they ripen, but once they are ripe, it’s essential to store them in the fridge.

Fruits like melons, berries, peaches, and plums ripen quickly and need to be refrigerated once they are fully ripe. Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, green beans, lettuce, and spinach also need to be refrigerated to maintain their freshness.

Dairy Products

Dairy products like milk, cheese, eggs, and yogurt need to be stored in the fridge to keep them from spoiling. Milk and other dairy products spoil quickly when exposed to temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cheese and yogurt can be stored in the fridge for several weeks, and eggs can remain fresh for up to a month when stored in the fridge.

Meat, Poultry, and Seafood

Meat, poultry, and seafood are highly perishable foods that can spoil quickly when not stored properly. These products need to be stored in the fridge to prevent bacterial growth and to extend their shelf life.

Raw meat, poultry, and seafood should be stored in the coldest part of the fridge to keep them fresh for longer.

Condiments

Most condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard do not need to be refrigerated until they are opened. Once opened, it is essential to store them in the fridge to prevent bacterial growth and maintain their flavor.

Salad dressings, pickles, and olives also need to be stored in the fridge once they are opened.

Breads, Cakes, and Pastries

Breads, cakes, and pastries can be stored at room temperature for a few days, but they begin to mold and spoil quickly. Storing them in the fridge can help to extend their shelf life and maintain their freshness.

Leftovers

Leftovers should always be stored in the fridge to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers or covered with plastic wrap to maintain their flavor and texture.

Herbs

Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and parsley can be stored in the fridge to keep them fresh for up to a week. Wrap them in damp paper towels and store them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds can be stored in the fridge to prevent them from going rancid. The cold temperature of the fridge helps to slow down the oxidation process, which can cause the nuts and seeds to spoil.

Store them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness.

Beverages

Beverages like fruit juice, soda, and beer should be stored in the fridge to keep them cold and refreshing. Wine and spirits can also be stored in the fridge, but it’s important to keep them away from light as it can affect their flavor and quality.

Canned Foods

Canned foods like fruits, vegetables, and beans can be stored at room temperature, but it’s best to refrigerate them once they are opened. Storing canned foods in the fridge helps to maintain their flavor and quality, and prevents them from spoiling.

Proper food storage can help to maintain the freshness and quality of your meals. By following these tips and storing your perishables in the fridge, you can keep your food fresh for longer and reduce your wastage.