Simple Ways to Keep Your Summer Produce Fresh Longer

Summer is the time for an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables, with markets overflowing with fresh, vibrant produce. However, the warm, humid weather of late summer can quickly cause your fresh finds to spoil if left on the counter for too long. It’s frustrating when your produce goes bad faster than expected!

Mold thrives in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in damp, humid environments. Cooling the temperature and drying out the air slows mold growth, which is why refrigerating certain produce during the hot summer months can help preserve its freshness. Mold loves moist foods like fruits, which provide the perfect environment for it to thrive.

Tips for Making Your Summer Produce Last Longer

A simple trick to prevent mold from ruining your fresh produce is to wash fruits and vegetables in a vinegar solution as soon as you get home from the store. Let them dry completely before storing them, and you’ll significantly reduce mold growth, extending their shelf life.

Why does this work? Vinegar contains acetic acid, which has a pH between 2 and 3, making it highly acidic. This acidity helps to combat bacteria and prevent mold from growing on produce; it can also eliminate some types of household mold, though not all.

To use vinegar on produce, create a simple solution by mixing one part white vinegar with three parts water in a bowl. Submerge the produce for 10 minutes, occasionally swishing it around to ensure it’s thoroughly coated. Drain the items and place them on a clean tea towel to dry completely before storing. Any leftover moisture could lead to mold, so be sure everything is dry before putting it away. Rinse produce again right before use.

Alternatively, make a vinegar spray by combining one part white vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle. Place your produce in a colander and spray the solution generously on all sides. Let it sit for up to 15 minutes, then dry thoroughly before storing.

To further prevent mold, store produce in breathable containers or packaging to allow for air circulation. It's also best to eat your produce soon after buying it for maximum freshness. Consider making smaller, more frequent trips to the store in hot, humid weather to avoid storing large quantities. Clean your refrigerator quarterly to discourage mold growth inside. If you notice mold on any produce, cut off the affected area and discard it.