Keeping Produce Fresh

What's up SimplyFit Family,

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a key part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, keeping these nutrient-packed foods fresh can sometimes be a challenge. In this issue, we're offering tips on how to store your fruits and vegetables to retain their flavor, nutrients, and longevity.

Countertop Storage

Not all fruits and vegetables need refrigeration. Apples, bananas, citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and garlic prefer a cool, dry, and dark space. However, keep onions and potatoes separate, as they can speed up each other's spoilage.

Refrigerator Storage

Most other fruits and vegetables are best kept in the refrigerator. The crisper drawers are designed to maintain a moist environment, ideal for leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, berries, and grapes. To prevent spoilage and transfer of flavors, store herbs, and stronger-smelling items like leeks and scallions in airtight containers.

Ripening and Ethylene Gas

Some fruits, like peaches, pears, plums, avocados, and tomatoes, produce ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening. To ripen these fruits quickly, store them together at room temperature. However, separate them from other produce to avoid premature ripening.

Handling and Prep

Avoid washing fruits and vegetables until you're ready to use them, as moisture can accelerate decay. For items like berries and lettuce, a quick rinse and thorough drying just before eating is best. If you prefer to prep in advance, dry thoroughly and store in the refrigerator in a container lined with a paper towel.

Freezing

If you've bought in bulk or just can't use up your fruits and veggies in time, consider freezing. Berries, peas, corn, and bell peppers freeze well. For best results, wash, dry, and cut into pieces if necessary, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Remember, fruits and vegetables are a vital part of a balanced diet, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber that contribute to overall health. Storing them correctly not only ensures they're always ready to use, but also reduces waste and saves money.

Eat well, stay active, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, SimplyFit Family!

The SimplyFit Team

The information in this newsletter is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of SimplyFit.