Make Food Last Longer
Let's face it, everyone finds a moldy piece of fruit in the bottom of the refrigerator from time to time, but if you find this is happening more often than you'd prefer, don't assume the fault lies in the grocer selling you inferior products. It is much more likely that the problem lies in the way you are handling the food once you bring it home. With a little care and some troubleshooting, you can keep your food fresh and tasting great until you are ready to eat it.
Instructions
1. Take a cooler with you when you shop for perishables. Even though you may think you live nearby and don't need to put foods in a cooler, summer heat quickly affects food, even if you can't see it. Maintaining proper temperatures until you get the food home will extend the life of your perishables.
2. Take care of foods immediately upon arriving home. Leaving them for just a few minutes can and does affect the freshness and taste of the food. Refrigerate items immediately that require refrigeration and repackage and freeze meats before they warm. Be sure to seal frozen food tightly and to force out all air from the package to prevent freezer burn.
3. Check the temperature of your refrigerator. Just because food feels cool to you, it doesn't mean your refrigerator is functioning at the optimum temperature. Temperatures should be below 40 degrees F but above freezing for proper refrigeration and to preserve the flavor and freshness of food. Adjust the temperature dial one notch and allow to set for 24 hours before measuring the temperature again. Adjust until the desired temperature is reached.
4. Assess the temperature of your freezer. Don't assume that because foods stay frozen that the temperature is correct. Ideal freezer temperature is 0 degrees F. Temperatures above 0 degrees F may keep your foods frozen, but it will reduce the length of time you can adequately store food. Flavor, texture and nutritional value will be compromised if the temperature is too low.
5. Store breads and pastries that will not be used within a few days in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Place cereal and other grains in airtight containers and store in the kitchen cabinets away from heat from appliances.
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