Summer is a great time to eat fresh fruit and vegetables. However, high temperatures can accelerate their ripening and lead to significant wastage. Here are a few practical tips to help you preserve your food and enjoy it all summer long.
Buy just what you need
To avoid food waste, make a list of the fruit and vegetables you need before you go shopping. This will enable you to buy the right quantity and avoid excess.
Choose fruit in season
For best preservation, opt for fruits and vegetables in season. They are at their peak of flavor and are generally more affordable.
Keep them in a cool place
After your purchase, place your fruit in a cool, dark, well-ventilated, dry place for a few days to encourage natural ripening. You can then store them in the refrigerator, but be sure to keep them in an airtight container to avoid accelerated ripening.
Vegetables in the fridge
Vegetables and leafy greens are best stored in the refrigerator during the summer months. To avoid damaging the leaves, store them in the refrigerator drawers, where the temperature is less cold. However, certain exceptions, such as tomatoes, should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Store organic produce correctly
Organic produce requires special attention in terms of ripeness, shelf life and storage. Because of their natural growth process, they are often riper at the time of purchase. It is therefore advisable to consume them quickly to avoid spoilage. What's more, as they contain no chemical preservatives, their shelf life may be slightly shorter than that of conventional products. To preserve them properly, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
A few more tips
To maximize the shelf life of your fruits and vegetables this summer, follow these practical tips:
- Use your freezer: if you have surplus organic produce, cook it and freeze it for later use. This will reduce waste and save you money.
- Avoid storing cut or wet fruit and vegetables in the fridge, unless you want to eat them the same day. Add a few drops of lemon juice to slow their ripening.
- Store organic fruits and vegetables separately, especially if they are at different stages of ripeness.
- Use suitable containers such as wicker baskets or airtight containers with absorbent paper to prevent dampness.
With these simple tips, you can extend the life of your fruit and vegetables this summer and avoid food waste. Take full advantage of the delicious flavours and colors of the summer season while preserving the environment.
