Learn proper food storage to extend freshness

Store herbs upright in a glass of water like flowers. Keep bananas separate from other fruit (they release ethylene that ripens other produce). Store berries unwashed in a paper towel-lined container. Keep bread on the counter or frozen, never in the fridge. Wrap cheese in wax paper, not plastic.

Why It Works

Improper storage is the second biggest cause of food waste. Many foods last 2-5x longer when stored correctly. Understanding ethylene sensitivity, humidity needs, and temperature preferences dramatically extends produce life.

Tips

• Fridge: lettuce in damp towel, berries in paper towel-lined container, cheese in wax paper
• Counter: tomatoes, bananas, avocados (until ripe, then fridge), onions, garlic, potatoes (dark place)
• Freezer: bread, fresh herbs in ice cube trays with oil, overripe bananas for smoothies, leftover broth
• The "first in, first out" rule: move older items to the front of the fridge so they get used first