Keeping your food properly stored in the cabinet or refrigerator is something to be taken seriously. Storing food correctly will not only make it last longer, but it will also keep you healthier. Improper food storage can lead to harmful bacteria and spoilage. Let’s take a look at some helpful tips to keep your food fresh and long-lasting.
vegetables
Keep your vegetables stored in the food drawer in your refrigerator. You can put all your vegetables in there except tomatoes, onions, potatoes, and garlic. Keep your potatoes, onions, and garlic in a dark place, or even in a paper bag, but not in the fridge.
You should store your vegetables in plastic bags to maintain their moisture and nutrients. You will also put the tomatoes in a plastic bag after cutting them.
fruit
Most people think that apples should be left on the table in a fruit bowl, but the truth is that they should be kept in the refrigerator. All types of berries should also be stored in the refrigerator. However, one fruit that should never be put in the fridge is the banana. It will immediately turn black. It’s not a pretty sight.
Melons, including watermelons, should be stored at normal room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, they should be stored in the refrigerator. The same can be said of grapes.
Other citrus-type fruits can be left out at room temperature or stored in the refrigerator. It doesn’t really matter with these fruits.
frozen meals
When freezing leftover food, be sure to put it in an airtight container or Ziploc bag to maintain freshness. If you don’t, ice crystals will form and your food will get freezer burn.
Meats, chicken and pork can also be kept in the freezer. Be sure not to refreeze these foods after thawing. You should use them after thawing or throw them away.
Milk and dairy products
Naturally, you’ll always keep your milk in the fridge, but be sure to keep an eye on the expiration date. Discard it after the expiration date. Another good tip is to buy milk at the store with an expiration date in the future. Look for gallon containers at the back of dairy shelves at the grocery store. They will have the latest expiration dates.
It’s also a good idea to check the expiration dates on all your dairy products at least once a week. This includes eggs too.
meat
Always keep fish, meats, chicken, and pork in the refrigerator until ready to eat. You should be sure to keep these items wrapped and away from other foods in your refrigerator to prevent bacteria and prevent them from contaminating other foods.
An important tip to keep in mind is that the fish should be eaten within two days of purchase.
Other elements
Keep your canned foods in a cool, dark pantry. This includes cereals, oils, breads, and pastas.
Food storage is certainly not difficult, but it does require some attention on your part. By properly storing your food, you will keep your food longer and your family will stay healthier.