How to Store Fruit With Ease

Buying fresh produce can be expensive, so it's important to keep it from spoiling, especially if you don't plan on eating it all in one sitting. If you're wondering how to store fruit so that you don't have to race the clock to get through them in time, this guide will give you multiple fruit storage ideas.

Countertop Storage
Refrigerator Storage
Freezer Storage
Canning Jars & Canisters
Storage Jars

First off, it's a good idea to store fruit and vegetables separately because fruits give off high levels of ethylene gas which makes the surrounding produce ripen and spoil prematurely. However, in order to store them separately, you will need the storage options to do so. The proper fruit storage will depend on the type of fruit you have on hand. Some fruits do well stored on a countertop at room temperature, while others keep best in the fridge to prevent them from ripening and 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, nectarines, and citrus, can simply be placed on a countertop and stored in the fridge once they ripen. If you need fruits, such as peaches or nectarines, to ripen faster, you can store them in a paper bag at room temperature, away from any heat or direct sunlight. Watermelons can be stored in a cool, dark place with vegetables such as potatoes, though the melon should be stored in the refrigerator once cut. Whether you need a fruit bowl, a fruit basket, or a dark nook like a breadbox or the pantry, it is 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 is 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: berries, grapes, citrus and cantaloupe. Some fruits, such as cherries and avocados (once ripened) can be placed in airtight containers for extended storage. Other fruits, such as berries, need to be stored in vented 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 refrigerator will allow you to keep your fruit fresh for much longer.

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 berries, bananas, and mangoes can be frozen and used in smoothies, added to hot cereal, or used for baking. An airtight, freezer-safe storage container or plastic bag will give you the chance to preserve any leftover fruit that you may not be able to get to in time. If you are 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 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.

Canning Jars & Canisters

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 labor will be worthwhile. Blueberries, strawberries, and apricots work well in preserves, and with berry picking season here, it's the perfect time to learn a new skill! What could be better than enjoying your own jam spread onto 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, raisins, and craisins 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 or jerky. 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. Once dehydrated, dried fruits can be stored in airtight containers or storage jars at room temperature.

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