The Secret to Storing Food to Keep It Fresh Longer

Nothing’s more frustrating than tossing out food that’s gone bad too soon. Proper storage not only extends the life of your groceries but also helps reduce food waste and save money. Here are the top secrets to keeping your food fresh for as long as possible.

1. Know Your Fridge Zones

The placement of food in your fridge can make a big difference:

• Top Shelf: Store ready-to-eat items like leftovers and drinks.

• Middle Shelves: Perfect for dairy products and eggs.

• Lower Shelves: Use for raw meat and fish to avoid cross-contamination.

• Crisper Drawers: Adjust settings for fruits and vegetables; many fridges have a “high humidity” option for leafy greens and a “low humidity” setting for fruits.

2. Use Airtight Containers

Switch to airtight containers or silicone bags to lock in freshness and prevent air exposure. These are especially useful for storing cut produce, grains, and snacks.

3. Wrap Produce Correctly

Different fruits and vegetables have unique storage needs:

• Leafy Greens: Wrap in a damp paper towel and place in a breathable bag.

• Herbs: Treat them like flowers—trim stems and place them in a glass of water, then cover loosely with a plastic bag.

• Apples and Oranges: Store in the crisper drawer without plastic.

4. Freeze Smartly

The freezer is your best friend for extending shelf life:

• Use freezer-safe bags and remove as much air as possible.

• Freeze items like bread, herbs (in olive oil), and even cheese to reduce waste.

• Label everything with the date to keep track of when it was frozen.

5. Don’t Wash Until Ready

Avoid washing produce until just before you use it. Excess moisture can lead to faster spoilage, especially for berries and mushrooms.

6. Keep Dry Goods Safe

Store pantry staples like flour, sugar, and grains in sealed containers to protect them from moisture and pests. Use labels to track expiration dates for easy organization.

7. Learn What Not to Refrigerate

Some foods lose flavor or texture in the fridge:

• Tomatoes: Store on the counter to preserve taste.

• Potatoes and Onions: Keep in a cool, dark place but away from each other, as onions release gases that can spoil potatoes faster.

With the right storage techniques, you can maximize the freshness of your food and cut down on waste. A few small adjustments can make a big difference for your wallet and the planet.

What’s your favorite tip for keeping food fresh?