7 Popular Fruits and Vegetables That Last a Long Time

 

Fresh fruits and vegetables are tasty, healthy — and, sadly, get tossed in the trash at an alarming rate. American families throw out about 25 percent of the food they buy and spoiled produce in the home is a major source of food waste.

Purchasing fruits and vegetables with a fairly long shelf life can help you save money, eat healthier and cut down on food waste. Here are seven popular fruits and vegetables that can last a long time when properly stored (click on the links to find detailed shelf life information and storage tips):

•         Onions:
They’ll last for 2-3 months in your pantry. Don’t store onions near potatoes - they’ll both spoil faster.

•         Apples:
Will keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. You can also keep them at room temperature for one to three days.

•         Potatoes:
Will last for 1-2 weeks at room temperature; 2-3 months in a cooler area. Potatoes shouldn’t be stored in the fridge — refrigeration could cause them to darken and become sweet during cooking.

•         Carrots:
Will keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. Keep in a plastic bag in the crisper.

•         Garlic:
Will last for 3-5 months in a cool, well-ventilated area.

•         Celery:
Will keep for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Wrapping celery tightly in aluminum foil can help keep it fresh.

•         Oranges:
They’ll keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator. You can also keep oranges for a week at room temperature.

See Also:
9 Foods That Last Forever
Can You Stop Bananas From Spoiling?
Guide to Storing Fruit: Where to Keep It

 

 

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