Organic produce is a great way to get the most out of your meals, but it's important to store it properly to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat. After purchasing organic vegetables such as spinach, kale, or lettuce, remove wilted leaves immediately to avoid cross-contamination. Then store them in an airtight container before placing them in the refrigerator. If they are wet, wrap them in a paper towel so that they absorb excess moisture.
It's always a good idea to wash products thoroughly, although the incidence of food-related illnesses is relatively low when you consider that everyone eats several times a day and people rarely get sick. Farm2Mountain products have been handled by a minimum number of people, as they come directly from the farms, are sorted according to our order and then arrive at Big Bear, where the individual items are packed in boxes or bags for delivery. It's never been on a public shelf. Because it's been growing outdoors just a day or two before it gets to your house, you probably still have dust and agricultural waste that must always be cleaned up. Better Homes & Gardens and the FDA give guidelines, and you can prepare a simple washing solution with water and white vinegar (see the graphic above).Some products spoil faster after washing, so the general recommendation is that they should not be washed until just before they are cut, peeled, cooked, or eaten.
Using soap or bleach to clean products is never recommended, and they can even be harmful if used. When berries are plentiful, they'll be cheaper, they'll taste better, and they'll be at their nutritional peak. That's when it's best to stock up by buying several batches of strawberries or blueberries locally and freezing them for year-round use. MA'O Organic Farms in Wai'anae is the largest organic farm in Hawaii and is a nonprofit organization that offers college scholarships to West Side youth in exchange for an internship on the farm. If you have to store organic products in the refrigerator, be sure to let them warm to room temperature before eating them for the best flavor. Organic produce can be tricky to store properly but following these tips will help you get the most out of your food while keeping it safe and fresh.
Make sure to remove wilted leaves immediately after purchase and store them in an airtight container before placing them in the refrigerator.
