How to keep fruit fresh for longer
Do you want to keep fruit fresh but struggle? Here we look at the top tips you need to know.
We all know fruit is good for us and that we should be eating 5 portions of fruit and or vegetables a day. But depending on the time of year, it can be expensive and more often than not it goes to waste before you’ve had a chance to eat it.
Keeping fruits fresh can sometimes be a challenge, especially if it’s hot and humid. Fortunately, several easy and effective methods help make your fruit last longer at home. Here are some tips to help you keep your favourite fruits fresher for longer…
Store Your Fruit Correctly
Ensuring you store fruit correctly is critical to extending its shelf life. Where possible, you should keep fruits in the crisper drawer of your fridge to prevent excessive ripening.
For example, apples, mangoes and pears will continue to ripen if left out, and fruits like berries and grapes should always be refrigerated as they will continue to ripen and spoil quicker.
A banana hanger is great for keeping bananas away from other fruit, and if you wrap the banana stems in cling film tightly, they ripen more slowly.
Avoid Moisture Build-up
While some fruits benefit from moisture, others are prone to spoilage if exposed to excess dampness.
To avoid moisture build-up, place a dry paper towel at the bottom of containers or bags containing fruits like strawberries, peaches, and grapes.
The paper towel will absorb excess moisture, helping to prolong their freshness.
Wash Fruit At The Right Time
Washing fruits right after purchasing them might seem like a good idea, but it can actually lead to premature decay. Moisture encourages mould growth and accelerates spoilage.
Instead, you should wash fruits just before eating them to remove dirt, bacteria, and pesticides. This simple habit will help keep your fruits fresh and flavourful for longer.
Freeze Fruit for Later
Freezing is an excellent way to preserve fruits when you have a surplus or can’t consume them before they go bad. Wash and slice the fruits before freezing them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Frozen fruits can last for months and are perfect for making smoothies, desserts, and sauces.
Invest in Ethylene Absorbers
Some fruits, like apples and bananas, release ethylene gas, which can speed up the ripening process of other fruits.
Ideally, you should store these fruits separately from berries and peaches, which will ripen when closer to fruits that produce ethylene gas.
To combat this, consider using ethylene absorbers or filters. These little packets can help control ethylene levels and extend the freshness of your fruits.
Delay Fruits From Ripening To Quickly
Fruits, like avocados and tomatoes, can be stored at room temperature to help delay their ripening. Similarly, if you have fruits that are ripening too quickly, placing them in the fridge can slow down the ripening process and make them last longer.
Use Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural antibacterial agent that can help prevent mould and bacteria growth in fruits. To utilise this method, combine one white vinegar and three water parts.
Soak your fruits in this solution for a few minutes, then rinse them thoroughly with clean water. The vinegar bath will not only extend the life of your fruits but also help remove any pesticide residue.
Make Homemade Preserves
When you have an abundance of ripe fruits, consider making homemade fruit preserves or jams. This will prolong the shelf life of your fruits and allow you to enjoy their flavours long after their peak season.
I made plum jam a few years ago when I lived in a house with a plum tree and enjoyed it for months as well as giving it as gifts to friends.
Dehydrate Your Fruits
Dehydrating fruits is another brilliant way to preserve them if you know you won’t be able to eat everything before it spoils.
If you don’t already have one invest in a dehydrator or an air fryer or you can even use your oven on a low-temperature setting to remove moisture from fruits such as apples, berries, and mangoes.
Dried fruits can be stored for months, providing a convenient and healthy snack for the whole family.
In conclusion, with these simple and practical tips, you can easily extend the shelf life of fruits at home and reduce unnecessary waste. Proper storage, timing, and preservation techniques will save you money and ensure that you always have fresh and nutritious fruits at your disposal.
So, the next time you stock up on your favourite fruits, keep these strategies in mind and enjoy their delightful flavours for an extended period.
