7 grocery hacks everyone should know about

1. Where should you store your apples? 

You may already know that storing your apples by other fruit is a no-no. But did you know they actually should be stored near potatoes? Apples release a gas called ethylene that causes most produce to ripen a little too quickly. Potatoes though, they love ethylene because it keeps them from sprouting. Looks like your apples just found their new BFFs—Best Food Friends.

2. How to make your carrots last longer

You can place them in a sealed bag or container and refresh the water every four to five days. Carrots thrive in a moist environment, so by submerging they can stay fresh for up to four weeks.

3. Store your tomatoes at room temperature 

While you may be inclined to think tomatoes should be stored in the fridge they should actually be stored on the counter. The frigid temperatures negatively impact their taste and texture. 

4. Store your strawberries in a glass jar 

Just make sure not to rinse them first! Minimising moisture is the key to keeping your strawberries fresh as long as possible (plus it’s a great way to up-cycle an old jar!)

5. Trim your broccoli bums often 

Trim the bottom of the broccoli and wrap in a wet paper towel, the freshly trimmed base will absorb the water and keep it fresh for longer.

6. Make smoothie ice cubes 

A great option for left over leafy greens—turn them into pre made smoothie cubes. Simply blend them up with any other leftover produce you have (bananas or avocados work great). Pour them into an ice cube tray, freeze, and then voila! A pre-made blend of vitamins ready to be dropped into your next smoothie.

7. Dress your bananas to prevent ripening 

To slow the ripening process, cover your banana stems in foil. Ethylene is released from the stem, and sealing it will give you a few extra days before your bananas start to look pretty spotty. In our house, bananas on the counter for more than three days get peeled and tossed into a bag in the freezer. These frozen bananas go in our breakfast smoothies, so we never have to worry about wasting them.