Cleaning Vegetables Before Refrigeration — How to Keep Them Fresh

Simple preparation steps can extend the shelf life of vegetables, reduce waste, and ensure food safety.

Practical Tips

Wash vegetables gently to remove soil and dust. For delicate produce, use your hands rather than harsh scrubbing.

Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or beets benefit from a soft brush to clear stubborn dirt.

Trim away bruised, wilted, or mouldy portions to prevent the spread of spoilage.

Moisture encourages bacteria and mould. Pat vegetables dry with a clean cloth or use a salad spinner for leafy greens.

Keep ethylene-releasing vegetables like tomatoes and onions away from sensitive items such as cucumbers and leafy greens to slow down ripening.

Not all vegetables belong in the refrigerator. Potatoes, onions, and winter squash store better in cool, dark, and