How to Store Food Properly

Proper food storage helps prevent food waste by keeping food fresh longer. Here are simple rules you can follow at home.

1. Store Fruits and Vegetables Correctly

Fruit and Vegetables In the fridge:

Berries, Leafy greens, Carrots, Broccoli, Apples (keep away from greens—they release gas that speeds ripening)

Other Foods for the Fridge

-Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
-Eggs

-Meat and seafood
-Leftovers
-Cut fruit and vegetables
-Herbs (if wrapped in a damp towel or stored in water)

On the counter:

Bananas, Tomatoes, Potatoes, Onions (keep onions and potatoes apart so they last longer)

2. Keep the Fridge at the Right Temperature

Set your fridge to ≤ 40°F (4°C).

The freezer should be 0°F (-18°C).

This slows bacteria growth and keeps food safe.

3. Use Airtight Containers

Store leftovers in airtight containers to:

-Keep moisture in
-Prevent odor mixing
-Reduce mold growth
-Label containers with dates so you know when to eat them.

4. Don’t Wash Foods Too Early

Moisture causes faster spoilage. Only wash produce right before eating or cooking.

5. Store Bread the Smart Way

Eat within a few days → store at room temperature
Want it to last longer → freeze it
Avoid the fridge (it dries bread out faster)

6. Practice “First In, First Out”

In your fridge or pantry:

Put older food in the front
Put newly bought food in the back

This helps you see what needs to be eaten first.

7. Freeze Foods Before They Go Bad

Freezing is one of the easiest ways to prevent food waste:

-Freeze fruits for smoothies
-Freeze bread, cooked rice, or leftovers
-Freeze herbs in ice cube trays with olive oil or water

8. Store Food Separately When Needed

Some foods release ethylene gas that makes others ripen too fast:

-Bananas
-Apples
-Avocados

Keep them separate from leafy greens and berries.