Fruits 🍎🍌🍇

• Apples: Store in the fridge drawer to keep them crisp.
• Bananas: Keep on the counter; for longer storage, refrigerate when ripe.
• Berries: Store in the fridge, unwashed in a breathable container or lined with paper towel.
• Citrus (Oranges, Lemons): Store in the fridge crisper drawer to extend shelf life.
• Grapes: Store in the fridge, unwashed, in a perforated plastic bag.
• Avocados: Keep on the counter to ripen, then store in the fridge to extend freshness.

‍

Vegetables 🥕🥦🍆

• Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach): Wrap in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge.
• Root Vegetables (Carrots, Potatoes): Potatoes - store in a cool, dark place in a breathable bag; Carrots - fridge in a container of water or wrapped in a damp paper towel.
• Tomatoes: Store on the counter away from sunlight; refrigerate only if fully ripe.
• Bell Peppers: Store in the fridge crisper drawer in a perforated plastic bag.
• Onions & Garlic: Store in a cool, dark, dry place in a mesh bag or basket.

‍

Dairy Products 🧀🥛

• Milk: Store in the fridge, ideally on a shelf where the temperature is most consistent.
• Cheese: Wrap in wax paper and store in the fridge drawer designated for cheese.
• Butter: Store in the fridge; can be kept on the counter if used within a few days.

Proteins 🍗🍖🥚

• Meat (Chicken, Beef): Store in the coldest part of the fridge, in its original packaging or airtight container.
• Fish: Store in the fridge on a bed of ice, ideally consumed within 1-2 days.
• Eggs: Store in the fridge in their original carton to prevent absorption of odors.

Grains and Legumes 🌾🍚

• Bread: Store on the counter for immediate use, freeze for longer storage. To refresh, toast or warm in the oven.
• Rice and Pasta: Store in the pantry in airtight containers to keep them dry.
• Beans and Lentils: Store in the pantry in airtight containers to protect from moisture and pests.

Pantry Staples 🍪🧂

• Flour: Store in the pantry in an airtight container to keep it dry and free from pests.
• Sugar: Store in the pantry in an airtight container to prevent clumping.
• Oils (Olive, Vegetable): Store in the pantry away from heat and light to prevent rancidity.
• Spices and Herbs: Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.

Snacks 🍫🍿

• Chocolate: Store in the pantry, away from heat and light; refrigerate if in a warm climate.
• Chips and Crackers: Store in the pantry in airtight containers to maintain crunch.

By following these storage tips, you can help ensure your food stays fresh longer, reducing waste and saving money. Happy cooking and eating from the Communiti kitchen!