Storing fresh food is never simple, but it can be more challenging if you live in a humid area. I hate wasting food since it always makes me feel bad. I recently discovered that, of everything I buy at the grocery store, fruits rot the most quickly. I normally buy two to three different types of fruit each time I go grocery shopping, but sometimes I end up tossing some of them away due to poor storage or buying more than I need and not eating them before they spoil. So I looked up a few things on Amazon that would help me keep the food fresh and extend its shelf life. I even bought a couple of these items from the list. So, if you’re struggling with fruit storage and looking for easy and cheap solutions, my experience will undoubtedly be beneficial. I will also share some fruit washing techniques with the most common and available items at home.
My Top Pick for Fruit Storage on Amazon
I bought this box on Amazon. It is separated into four parts, with the bottom collecting water through draining holes. I like how the box is divided into compartments, making it easier to store multiple fruits at once. I store different berries, baby carrots, grapes, and other fruits all at once in this storage box. Because multiple items are stored together, it is easier to check the status of the produce and identify which one is rotting first. Also, the box is very stylish and may be used to serve appetizers to guests. I used this box when I went on a family picnic recently.
Essential Gadgets for Fruit Storage
Fruit Wash Spinning Bowls
Often, excess water is the biggest culprit for fruit spoilage. But you cannot store fruits without completely washing them, as those can be contaminated with pesticides. So, in that case, buy a gadget with a string to remove all the excess water from fruits and veggies. These essential kitchen gadgets are known as fruit wash spinning bowls.
Stackable Organizer Bins
These stackable organizer bins are also useful for storing fruits. Ensure that the fruits are patted dry before putting them in, as there are no drainage holes on them. However, the clear covering makes it easier to monitor the fruit that has been stored. These bins come in different sizes and is multi-purpose.
Over the sink Strainer Basket
These baskets are affordable and can be used to wash any kind of fresh produce. Your sink will fit these over-the-sink strainer baskets with ease. So, if you don’t have a spinner bowl, get these ones for easy rinse, flexibility, and a water-splash-free option.
Veggie and Herb Scrubber
You should always rub off the surface of fresh produce to get rid of any dirt. Mostly, these cheap and affordable scrubbers are for vegetables with rough surfaces that can hold dust and are difficult to get rid of with a simple water rinse. Like potatoes, carrots, beets, etc., these root vegetables need some muscle strength to scrape and wash the surface. I have been using one for months. These scrubbers are robust and long-lasting. I have provided the link below.
Food Hugger
I usually have trouble storing half an apple or half a banana. After a few days, I find half-eaten fruits in the kitchen or refrigerator. I didn’t realize these huggers existed; now, I use these most of the time. These are excellent and unique items for reducing food waste, particularly if you have young children at home. Also, if you are watching your calories, these huggers will keep your half-eaten fruits from going bad.
Do you know about Dirty Dozens?
I recently learned about Dirty Dozens. This dirty dozen list contains the names of fruits and vegetables that contain the most harmful pesticides during farming.
- According to the EWG’s Dirty Dozen list for 2023, kale, collard greens, and mustard greens contain the most pesticides, with 101 detected on hot peppers and bell peppers.
- Blueberries and green beans are new additions, with 80% of blueberry samples containing two or more pesticides.
- The list also includes strawberries, spinach, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, peaches, pears, nectarines, apples, grapes, bell peppers and hot peppers, cherries, blueberries, and green beans.
As you can see, most of the fruits and berries are on the list. Experts suggest that you buy organic produce, at least for these items on the dirty dozen list. If you are not buying organic items, washing these fruits and vegetables multiple times is very crucial to removing the pesticide before consuming them daily.
Fruits washing techniques with baking soda or vinegar
It is important to properly wash your fruits, especially those that are high in pesticide residue. All sorts of berries need more washing than the rest of the fruit items. You can wash fruits with water. But it is better to use baking soda or vinegar.
- Baking soda is non-toxic and can remove bacteria, dirt, and pesticide residues.
- To use baking soda, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 2 cups of water. Soak fruits for 10–15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and then dry up.
- Vinegar is known for its antimicrobial properties and can also prevent mold growth.
- Mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts of water and then soak the fruits for 10–15 minutes. After that, rinse them thoroughly and dry them up. As vinegar has a smell and is acidic in nature, make sure to wash thoroughly to leave no residue.
Produce wash and cleaner on Amazon
A drawback of vinegar or baking powder is the aftertaste or smell. So, I went in search of a commercial cleanser that would be simpler to rinse off and leave no lingering taste or odor. I chose to give this well-liked vegetable wash a try from Amazon. Wax, dirt, residue, and pesticides can all be easily removed with this cleanser. It is reasonably priced as well. I have linked the item here. The best part is that this cleaner is unscented.
Great picks! These fruit storage containers look perfect for keeping everything fresh and organized. Can’t wait to try them out!