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How to store food correctly and for longer
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## 🥡 2. **Use Airtight Containers**
Air is the enemy of freshness. To slow spoilage, transfer foods to **airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers**. This is especially useful for:
* Leftovers
* Opened snacks and cereals
* Cut fruits and vegetables
* Cooked grains and beans
**Tip:** Label and date your containers so you know when to eat or toss.
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## 🍞 3. **Freeze Strategically**
The freezer is your best friend for preserving food long-term. Just follow a few rules:
* Freeze **bread**, meat, soups, sauces, chopped veggies, herbs in oil
* Use **freezer-safe bags or containers**
* Remove as much **air as possible** to prevent freezer burn
* Portion food before freezing for easier defrosting
**Pro tip:** Store flat in bags to save space and defrost faster.
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## 🍎 4. **Use Produce Drawers Correctly**
Most fridges have two humidity drawers—knowing how to use them makes a big difference.
* **High humidity drawer:** leafy greens, carrots, broccoli
* **Low humidity drawer:** apples, citrus, peppers, avocados
**Keep fruits and veggies separated**—many fruits give off ethylene gas, which can make nearby vegetables spoil faster.
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## 🧀 5. **Wrap Cheese and Deli Items Properly**
Avoid suffocating cheese in plastic wrap. Instead:
* Wrap hard cheeses in **wax paper or parchment paper**, then loosely cover in foil
* Store deli meats in **resealable bags** or airtight containers
This helps reduce moisture buildup and mold.
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## 🥚 6. **Rotate and Organize Smartly**
Use the **FIFO method**: *First In, First Out*. Always eat the oldest items first.
* Store new groceries **behind** older ones
* Use clear bins or lazy Susans to keep track of condiments and jars
* Group similar items together so nothing gets forgotten
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## 🧊 7. **Keep Your Fridge at the Right Temperature**
To keep food safe and fresh:
* **Fridge:** 1°C to 4°C (34°F to 40°F)
* **Freezer:** -18°C (0°F)
Use a fridge thermometer if needed to ensure consistent temperature.
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## 🚫 8. **Avoid Overpacking Your Fridge**
A crowded fridge can block airflow and cause uneven cooling. This leads to hot spots where food spoils quickly.
**Leave space between items** so cold air can circulate effectively.
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## ✅ Final Thoughts
Proper food storage is more than just stuffing items in the fridge—it’s about using simple habits and a little organization to get the most out of your groceries. By storing food correctly, you’ll reduce waste, save money, and enjoy fresher, tastier meals every day.
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Would you like a printable food storage chart or fridge organization checklist? I can create that for you next!
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