SMART STORAGE: Know which fruits and vegetables stay fresh longer inside or outside the fridge. By storing them for maximum freshness, they will taste better and last longer. &EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA-530-F-014-D February 2016 ------- FRUIT AND VEGETABLE STORAGE GUIDE INSIDE THE FRIDGE • Apples, berries, and cherries • Grapes, kiwi, lemons, and oranges • Melons, nectarines, apricots, peaches, and plums (after ripening at room temperature) • Avocados, pears, tomatoes (after ripening at room temperature) • Almost all vegetables and herbs OUTSIDE THE FRIDGE • Bananas, mangos, papayas, and pineapples: store in a cool place • Potatoes / onions: store in a cool, dark place • Basil and winter squashes: store at room temperature— once cut, store squashes in fridge MORE STORAGE TIPS • If you like your fruit at room temperature, take what you will eat for the day out of the fridge in the morning. • Many fruits give off natural gases that hasten the spoilage of other nearby produce. Store bananas, apples, and tomatoes by themselves and store fruits and vegetables in different bins. • Consider storage bags and containers designed to help extend the life of your produce. • To prevent mold, wash berries just before eating. ------- |