Every refrigerator has a crisper drawer, usually meant for produce. Its high humidity level is supposed to keep fruit and vegetables fresher for longer. But, which foods should be stored together, kept apart, and what is the exact humidity level to keep it at?
High vs. Low Humidity
The first confusing thing is what should be put at high humidity and what should be put in the crisper with low humidity. It all depends on if the produce is ethylene-sensitive or ethylene-producing. The ethylene-sensitive produce are sensitive to moisture loss and are typically the ones that will wilt. Since they are sensitive, these produce must be protected at high humidity:
- asparagus
- unripe bananas
- broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- cabbage
- cauliflower
- citruses
- cucumbers
- eggplant
- green beans
- herbs
- leafy greens
- okra
- parsely
- peas
- peppers
- squash
- strawberries
- sweet potatoes
- watermelon
The ethylene-producing produce are not sensitive to this gas, as they produce it as they ripen. They tend to rot and need the gases to be let out. Therefore, should be kept at a low humidity:
- apples
- apricots
- avocados
- ripe bananas
- cantaloupes
- figs
- melons
- kiwi
- mangoes
- nectarines
- papayas
- peaches
- pears
- plantains
- plums
Different Ways to Use the Crisper
Now that you know how the crisper should be used, here are some different ways to use it.
Make two humidity levels for each crisper. One high, one low. To keep track of what goes in each, follow the lists above!
If you don't have a meat drawer, the crisper in your fridge can be used as one to store raw meat. It is typically located at the bottom of your fridge, so any drips from the meat won't be contaminating any other food. But, if you need both crispers, store the meat in a bin in one of them for dual-use of your drawers.
Bins instead of bags! When you're at the store, typically produce is put in a bag before it's bought. And, when it's put away, ditch the bag and store it in a bin in your crisper. This will allow for easier access and will keep them in place. Furthermore, this also works for salad! Keep your salad from wilting or getting soggy in bags by storing it in a bin with a towel.
So, those were some easy tips and tricks to extend the lives of your produce and increase the efficiency of your refrigerator crisper drawers!
Thanks for reading!
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