Fresh fruits and vegetables are tasty, healthy — and, sadly, get tossed in the trash at an alarming rate. American families throw out about 25 percent of the food they buy and spoiled produce in the home is a major source of food waste.
Purchasing fruits and vegetables with a fairly long shelf life can help you save money, eat healthier and cut down on food waste. Here are seven popular fruits and vegetables that can last a long time when properly stored (click on the links to find detailed shelf life information and storage tips):
• Onions:
They’ll last for 2-3 months in your pantry. Don’t store onions near potatoes - they’ll both spoil faster.
• Apples:
Will keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. You can also keep them at room temperature for one to three days.
• Potatoes:
Will last for 1-2 weeks at room temperature; 2-3 months in a cooler area. Potatoes shouldn’t be stored in the fridge — refrigeration could cause them to darken and become sweet during cooking.
• Carrots:
Will keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. Keep in a plastic bag in the crisper.
• Garlic:
Will last for 3-5 months in a cool, well-ventilated area.
• Celery:
Will keep for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Wrapping celery tightly in aluminum foil can help keep it fresh.
• Oranges:
They’ll keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. You can also keep oranges for a week at room temperature.
See Also:
9 Foods That Last Forever
Can You Stop Bananas From Spoiling?
Guide to Storing Fruit: Where to Keep It
