Tag: Produce care

According to agricultural research, unwashed potatoes can experience significantly less moisture loss in storage than washed ones, often up to 30%. This critical difference is the core reason experts advise against washing potatoes before storing them, an important tip for anyone aiming to maximize freshness and prevent early spoilage.

Washing green grapes prematurely can actually accelerate spoilage, as excess moisture encourages mold growth. Knowing how to clean and store green grapes correctly is the key to enjoying them at their best for longer.

Bananas are a climacteric fruit, meaning they continue to ripen after being harvested, and temperature is the single most important factor influencing this process. Understanding what temperature affects bananas allows you to control their ripeness, whether you want them to last longer or be ready for a delicious banana bread.

According to the USDA, applying a wax coating to apples can reduce moisture loss by up to 30%, significantly extending the fruit's shelf life. This dual protection—a natural coating plus a commercially applied layer—is the reason why apples feel like they have wax on them, preserving their crispness and shine from the farm to your table.

According to agricultural studies, storing potatoes unwashed can extend their shelf life by up to 30% compared to those that have been rinsed. This might seem counterintuitive to kitchen cleanliness, but the natural, protective layer of soil is key to preserving your potatoes long-term. So, do potatoes keep better, washed or unwashed? The science says, leave the dirt on.

According to the University of California, Davis, cucumbers are prone to 'chilling injury' below 50°F, which causes softening and decay. To keep organic cucumbers fresh, the key is to strike a balance between cool storage and protecting them from moisture loss and buildup.

According to the USDA, a significant amount of food is wasted annually in the U.S., with spoiled produce being a major contributor. By mastering a few key storage techniques, you can effectively learn how to keep fruit fresh longer in the fridge and save money while reducing food waste.

According to agricultural experts, some fruits produce a natural hormone called ethylene gas that significantly accelerates the ripening process in other produce nearby. For this reason, the answer to 'can bananas and lemons be stored together?' is a definite no, as it will lead to rapid spoilage of your lemons.

According to food safety experts and food scientists, leaving broccoli submerged in water for an extended period is not recommended. This practice significantly increases the risk of bacterial contamination and causes the leaching of valuable, water-soluble nutrients from the vegetable.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing fresh fruit is essential to remove contaminants that cause foodborne illnesses. This applies to all produce, so if you're wondering, "Do I have to wash a peach before eating it?", the answer is a resounding yes to ensure your peach is clean and safe.