1. Revive Limp Greens with Cold Water

• Leafy greens like lettuce, kale, and spinach can quickly wilt, but don’t toss them just yet! Submerge them in a bowl of ice water for 5-10 minutes, and they’ll regain their crispness.

(Source: balconygardenweb.com)

2. Use Vinegar Baths for Berries

• Berries are delicate and prone to molding. Rinse them in a diluted vinegar solution (one part vinegar to three parts water) to kill mold spores. Dry them thoroughly before storing to keep them fresh for days longer.

3. Store Herbs in a Glass of Water

• Treat herbs like flowers. Place stems in a jar with a bit of water and cover loosely with a plastic bag. They’ll stay vibrant and fresh longer, giving you more time to use them in your favorite dishes.

4. Avoid Refrigerating Potatoes, Onions, and Garlic

• These root vegetables fare better in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. Keep them separate, as onions and garlic can cause potatoes to sprout faster.

5. Wrap Celery in Aluminum Foil

• Storing celery in foil rather than plastic helps it retain moisture without turning mushy. This trick also works for broccoli and other hardy veggies, keeping them fresh for up to two weeks.

6. Separate Fruits and Vegetables

• Ethylene gas, emitted by fruits like apples and bananas, speeds up the ripening process of vegetables. Store them separately to avoid premature spoilage.

7. Store Mushrooms in a Paper Bag

• Plastic traps moisture, which makes mushrooms slimy. A paper bag, on the other hand, allows them to breathe and stay fresh for a longer period.

(Source: thekitchn.com)

8. Freeze Your Excess

• If you see produce nearing its expiration, chop and freeze it. Frozen fruits are perfect for smoothies, while frozen veggies work great in soups, stir-fries, and stews.

By using these clever hacks, you can prolong the life of your produce and get more out of each grocery run. Happy cooking and storing!