Fresh produce often has a short shelf life, and it’s easy to overestimate how much we need, especially after the produce has been cut. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to make your fruit and vegetables last longer and reduce food waste in the process.
– Buy only what you need – It might sound obvious, but buying in smaller quantities as and when you need them helps prevent spoilage. Try planning meals ahead and shopping accordingly. This also saves on storage space and cuts down on waste.
– Avoid plastic packaging – Plastic wrap can accelerate spoilage by trapping moisture and limiting airflow. Remove any plastic packaging and store your produce in breathable containers or reusable cotton bags. Better still, bring your own bags and buy loose produce where possible.
– Store produce correctly – Not everything belongs in the fridge. Potatoes, for example, should be stored in a cool, dark place – and not alongside onions, which can cause them to sprout faster due to moisture release. A little research goes a long way when it comes to correct storage methods.
– Use wraps for cut items – Half-used fruits and vegetables can dry out quickly. Wrapping them in beeswax or reusable cotton wraps helps retain moisture and extend freshness.
– Keep your storage clean – Check your fridge or cupboard regularly. A single rotten item can speed up the spoilage of others nearby. Clean storage areas and remove any spoiled produce promptly.
– Freeze for later – Freezing is a great way to preserve produce without compromising nutritional value. Blanching vegetables before freezing helps retain their colour and texture. Simply wash, cut, briefly boil, cool in ice water, drain, and freeze.
M&P Engineering is an industry leading manufacturer and supplier of food processing equipment to food production sites across the globe. With over 50 years’ experience in the industry, M&P Engineering has grown to become a global business.
M&P Engineering manufactures high quality freshcut machinery. New technology is constantly being developed and improved to meet the ever-increasing demand for fresh fruit and vegetables ready to eat.
M&P’s Carousel Grid Cutting machine is capable of cutting vegetables and fruit into fries, batons, wedges, petals and slices.
In addition, M&P Engineering also has available a world-renowned onion peeling machine. M&P’s Large Onion Peeler uses self-adjusting knife assemblies to top, tail and peel onions. It also uses air compressors to remove the outer skin.
If you would like to find out more information about M&P’s products and services, please call on +44 (0)161 872 8378 or contact us here.