No one likes to waste food, but it seems that nothing stays fresh in the refrigerator. The experts from Sub-Zero share the following tips to help prevent food from spoiling:
- Minimize handling of food to reduce the risk of spoilage. Store vegetables in airtight containers or plastic wrap, and store aromatic fruits in plastic bags. Store meats in original packaging. Once meat is opened, rewrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Some fruits and vegetables produce ethylene, a gas associated with the ripening process. Ethylene can cause premature ripening in certain foods, while in others it can actually cause damage. To reduce spoilage, do not store ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables with those that are ethylene-sensitive.
- Avocados, mangos and pears should be ripened on the counter before refrigeration.
- Bananas, tomatoes, eggplant, garlic, ginger, jicama and potatoes should not be refrigerated at all for optimum freshness.