Keeping your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer not only helps you reduce food waste but also ensures that you have nutrient-rich produce at your disposal whenever you need it.

To help you make the most of your fresh produce, here are 12 easy tips that will help extend their shelf life and preserve their quality.

1. Store in the Refrigerator

Most fruits and vegetables benefit from refrigeration, as the cool temperature helps slow down the ripening process. However, some fruits like bananas, tomatoes, and cucumbers are sensitive to cold temperatures.

So, it’s best to keep them in a cool pantry or countertop.

2. Separate Ethylene Producers and Ethylene-Sensitive Produce

Some fruits, such as apples, bananas, pears, and avocados, release a natural ripening agent called ethylene gas. This gas can accelerate the ripening and spoilage of ethylene-sensitive fruits and vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, and berries.

To prevent this, store ethylene producers and ethylene-sensitive produce separately.

3. Keep Potatoes, Onions, and Apples Apart

Potatoes, onions, and apples release certain gases that can cause the spoilage of other nearby produce. To prevent this from happening, store these items separately in a cool, dark place like a pantry.

4. Wrap Leafy Greens in Damp Cloth

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale tend to wilt quickly. To keep them fresh for longer, wrap them in a damp cloth or paper towel before storing them in a sealed container or plastic bag in the refrigerator.

The moisture helps retain their crispness.

5. Store Herbs like Bouquets

Instead of tossing herbs directly into the refrigerator, treat them like bouquets of flowers. Trim the stems and place them in a glass of water, then cover them loosely with a plastic bag.

This method can help herbs like cilantro, parsley, and mint stay fresh for up to a week.

6. Freeze Overripe Fruits

If you notice some fruits becoming overripe and fear they will go to waste, consider freezing them. Slice or chop the fruits, remove any pits or seeds, and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer. Frozen fruits are great for smoothies, sauces, and baking.

7. Trim and Store Fresh Berries

Berries are delicate and prone to molding quickly. To prolong their freshness, remove any spoiled or crushed berries before storing them. Instead of washing them right away, wait until just before you plan to eat them.

Keep them refrigerated and store in a shallow container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

8. Avoid Storing Fruits and Vegetables Together

Fruits produce ethylene gas as they ripen, which can accelerate spoilage in vegetables. It’s best to store them separately to prevent cross-contamination. If possible, dedicate different refrigerator drawers or sections to fruits and vegetables.

9. Use Airtight Containers or Bags

To maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss, store your fruits and vegetables in airtight containers or sealed plastic bags.

This practice is particularly essential for cut fruits and vegetables that are more susceptible to drying out and becoming unappetizing.

10. Avoid Washing Produce before Storage

While it may be tempting to wash your produce as soon as you bring it home, it’s better to wait until just before consuming it. Moisture can promote the growth of bacteria and mold, which can spoil your fruits and vegetables faster.

Keep them dry until you’re ready to use them, and rinse them right before eating or cooking.

11. Revive Wilting Produce

If you come across slightly wilted produce, they can still be revived to extend their usability. Soak wilted vegetables in ice-cold water for a few minutes, and they’ll regain their crispness.

For wilted carrots, immerse their tops in water to rehydrate them. As for wilted herbs, trim the ends and place them in a glass of water to rejuvenate.

12. Monitor and Rotate Your Stock

To prevent forgotten or expired produce from spoiling, keep a close eye on your stock. Regularly check the condition of your fruits and vegetables, and consume those nearing their expiry date first.

By regularly rotating your stock, you ensure fresher produce and minimize unnecessary waste.