No one likes finding wilted greens or moldy berries in their fridge. Keeping produce fresh can be tricky, but with a few simple hacks, you can extend the life of your fruits and veggies. These easy tricks will help you keep your produce fresh and delicious for longer.

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Store Herbs in Water

Fresh greens including a jar of herbs, lettuce on the left, and spinach on the right, arranged on a light-colored surface.
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Keep herbs like cilantro, parsley and mint fresh by storing them in a glass of water, like a bouquet. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change the water every few days for maximum freshness.

Wrap Greens in Paper Towels

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Extend the life of leafy greens by wrapping them in paper towels before placing them in a plastic bag. The paper towels absorb excess moisture, preventing the greens from wilting and rotting. If you buy plastic containers of leafy greens, put a paper towel on top of the greens, close the lid then store the container upside down in the fridge. You’ll be amazed how much longer they last!

Use Vinegar Bath for Berries

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Wash berries in a mixture of one part vinegar to three parts water before storing. This kills bacteria and mold spores, helping the berries stay fresh longer. Rinse well and dry completely before refrigerating.

Store Apples Separately

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Apples release ethylene gas, which can make other produce ripen faster. Keep apples in their own section of the fridge or pantry to slow down the ripening process of nearby fruits and veggies.

Keep Tomatoes at Room Temp

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Tomatoes lose flavor and texture in the fridge. Store them at room temperature, stem side down, to maintain their juiciness and taste. Once ripe, use them within a few days for the best flavor.

Use a Produce Saver

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Invest in produce saver containers or bags that are designed to regulate moisture and air flow, keeping fruits and vegetables fresh longer. They’re reusable and make a big difference in extending shelf life.

Refrigerate Bananas Separately

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Once bananas are ripe, separate them and refrigerate. The skins may darken, but the fruit inside will stay fresh and firm for a longer period. This helps prevent overripe bananas and reduces waste.

Store Mushrooms in Paper Bags

White button mushrooms on a wooden surface.
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Keep mushrooms in a paper bag instead of plastic. The paper bag absorbs moisture, preventing mushrooms from getting slimy and extending their shelf life. Store the bag in the main compartment of the fridge.

Don’t Wash Until Ready

A person washes an apple under a kitchen faucet while other fruits like oranges and apples are in the sink below.
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Only wash produce right before you’re ready to use it. Washing too soon can introduce moisture, which promotes mold and bacteria growth. Keep unwashed produce in the fridge or pantry to maintain freshness.

Revive Wilted Greens

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Soak wilted greens in ice water for about 30 minutes to bring back their crispness. This simple trick can make your greens look and taste fresh again.

11 Herbs You Should Start Growing Today

Various pots of healthy microgreens placed on a bright, sunlit window sill, with a focus on a vibrant red pot.
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Growing your own herbs is not only simple and rewarding, but it can also significantly reduce your grocery bills. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small windowsill, it’s possible to grow a variety of herbs from the comfort of your home. By planting these essential herbs, you’ll always have fresh flavors at your fingertips and extra cash in your pocket. Plus, there’s nothing like the taste of freshly picked herbs to top off a meal.

Read it Here: 11 Herbs You Should Start Growing Today

Regrow Your Groceries: 13 Foods That Come Back to Life

A halved iceberg lettuce with mint leaves on top, secured by toothpicks and placed in a glass bowl on a wooden table.
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Want to get more out of your grocery purchases? It’s easier than you might think to regrow your own food from scraps. This guide will walk you through 11 common foods that you can easily start regrowing at home. Not only is this a great way to save money, but it’s also incredibly satisfying to watch your new plants sprout! Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting out, you’ll find these tips to be simple, fun, and rewarding.

Read it Here: Regrow Your Groceries: 13 Foods That Come Back to Life

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Founder and Writer at Running to the Kitchen | About

Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.

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