Storage Tips to Keep Your Fruit Fresher and Juicier for Longer

Buying fresh fruit can be expensive, which is why it's important to keep yours from going off and rotting for as long as possible, especially if you don't plan on eating it all in one sitting. If you're wondering how to store your fruit so that you can avoid throwing the majority of it away, our guide offers you multiple fruit storage ideas.

First of all, it's a good idea to store fruit and vegetables separately as fruit gives off high levels of ethylene which means that any fruits and veggies in close proximity, ripen and spoil prematurely. However, in order to store them separately, you'll need the storage options to do so.

Proper fruit storage depends on the type of fruit you have. Some fruits do well stored on a countertop, while others keep best in the fridge to prevent them from spoiling too quickly. If you have an excess amount of fruit that you know you won't get to in time, the freezer is an additional storage option to consider.

Countertop Storage

Some fruit, including apples, pears, apricots, peaches and citrus fruits, can simply be placed on a countertop and stored in the fridge once ripe. Watermelons can be stored in a cool, dark place with vegetables such as potatoes, though the melon should be stored in the refrigerator once sliced. Whether you need a fruit bowl, fruit basket or a dark nook like a breadbox, it's easy enough to choose a countertop storage option that matches your kitchen decor.

It's always a good idea to research a little and find out what type of storage is best, as some fruits that are stored at room temperature can ripen faster. If you are short on space, a multipurpose fruit storage basket with a hanging fruit holder will allow you to keep more produce without taking up too much surface area. A hanging fruit holder is ideal for storing bananas in particular. It's possible to get a hanging fruit holder or a fruit holder attached to a fruit bowl. Either way, this product will consist of a vertical arm which casually has a hook of sorts, over which the fruit can be hung.

Refrigerator Storage

Many fruits should be stored in the refrigerator to keep them from ripening too quickly, including: blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, citrus fruits, honeydew melon and cantaloupe. Some fruits, such as cherries and avocados (once ripened) can be placed in an airtight container for extended storage. Other fruits, like berries, need to be stored in well-ventilated containers so that any moisture they may contain doesn't cause them to spoil faster. Any fruit that has been cut or sliced should be kept in the fridge. However you store your fruit, the cool atmosphere of the fridge will allow you to keep your fruit fresh for much longer.

Tip: As well as fruit, keep herb cuttings like mint and parsley stored in the refrigerator to ensure freshness. Simply place your herbs in a mason jar and fill half way with water.

Freezer Storage

One of the easiest ways to store fruit and keep it from going bad is by making use of the freezer. Fruits such as blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, bananas and mangoes can be frozen and used in smoothies, added to hot cereal or used for baking. An airtight container thats also freezer-safe will give you the chance to preserve any leftover fruit that you may not be able to eat in time. If you're afraid of freezer burn, you can take advantage of a vacuum-sealed plastic bag – all you need to do is place the fruit in the plastic bag and allow the food vacuum sealer to do its job. That way, you will have beautifully preserved frozen fruits for whatever recipe you wish to use them in.

Preserving Jars

If you have excess fruit, it might be the time to try your hand at canning and making preserves. Large, firm fruits like pears, plums and apples work well for canning. Making your own simple syrup is easy enough and storing canned fruit will give you a delicious dessert that you can enjoy at any time. Making a fruit preserve may take a little more skill, but if you are patient enough to learn, the labour will be worthwhile. Blueberries, strawberries, lemons and apricots work well in preserves. What could be better than enjoying your own, homemade jam or curd on your morning toast?

Storage Jars

Of course, you won't want to put your fresh fruit straight into a storage jar. Instead, you can dehydrate it and store it in jars to keep it for longer. Banana chips, apple crisps, mango and raisins are just a few fruits ideal for drying. And once they've dried, you will have healthy snacks on hand or even try to make your own trail mix. A dehydrator doesn't only work on fruits; it's also possible you can make your own herbs. If you don't have space for a single-use appliance such as a dehydrator, an air fryer will do just the trick. Slow dry your fruit, cook entire meals and even bake desserts with one device.

Now that you know how to store fruit, you will be able to keep and enjoy your fresh produce for longer.