Best Ways To Store Food To Keep It Fresh
Storing food in the right place keeps it fresher for longer – and it saves you money.
Storing food properly is one of those things adults are expected to figure out on their own.
A general rule of thumb is that if you didn't find it in the refrigerated section of the grocery store, it doesn't need to be refrigerated at home. That means:
Citruses, bananas, and pineapples can be left out in a fruit bowl.
Berries, broccoli, and leafy greens need to be chilled.
Potatoes and onions should be stored outside the fridge in a place where sunlight can't reach them.
The one exception to this rule is apples. While they can last a few days on the countertop, there's no downside to refrigerating them. According to Real Simple, apples in the fridge can last up to three weeks without getting brown or wrinkly.
Another type of item that can trip people up when they're putting away their groceries is condiments.
A lot of sauce bottles say to put them in the refrigerator after opening, but these suggestions don't always need to be followed.
Many condiments—such as ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce—are high in vinegar and other preservatives. That means they won't spoil sitting at room temperature, even if the packaging seal has been broken.
Soy sauce, honey, pickles, brown sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and chutney can all be stored in the pantry, though keeping them in the fridge won't hurt.
Storing food in the right place keeps it fresher for longer – and it saves you money.
Preview photo credit: en.wikipedia.org