## Proper Food Storage to Reduce Food Waste

Proper food storage can significantly reduce food waste and ensure your groceries last longer. Here’s how you can optimize your food storage:

### **1. Learn Storage Techniques**

- **Fruits:** Store fruits like apples, pears, and citrus in the refrigerator to extend their freshness. Bananas, avocados, and tomatoes are best kept at room temperature until they ripen, then can be moved to the fridge.

- **Veggies:** Leafy greens like spinach and lettuce should be stored in the crisper drawer, wrapped in a damp cloth. Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and potatoes should be kept in a cool, dark place.

- **Herbs:** Store herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil in a glass of water, covered with a bag, in the fridge. Hardier herbs like rosemary and thyme can be wrapped in a damp cloth and stored in a container in the refrigerator.

### **2. Store by Shelf Life**

- **Pantry:** Organize your pantry by placing items with the shortest shelf life at the front. This makes it easier to see and use them before they expire. Keep dry goods like rice, pasta, and flour in airtight containers to prolong their freshness.

- **Fridge:** Place perishable items like dairy, meat, and leftovers in the most visible spots in your refrigerator. Use transparent containers to easily identify contents and label them with their storage dates.

### **3. Plan to Use Older Foods**

- **Clear Labeling:** Label your food to see when it should be used by. Jot down the date purchased on takeout containers and write expiry dates in large text on packaged items so it’s easier to see than squinting at the bottom of the container. If you transfer goods from their original packaging into another vessel, be sure to transfer the expiry date too.

- **Meal Planning:** At the beginning of each week, take inventory of your fridge and pantry, noting items that are close to expiring. Plan your meals around these ingredients to ensure they are used up before they go bad.

- **Creative Cooking:** Get creative with your meal planning. Use wilting vegetables in soups, stews, or stir-fries. Incorporate overripe fruits into smoothies, muffins, jams, or a Wren team favorite—banana bread. Blend leftover herbs into pestos or sauces. Turn stale bread into croutons, breadcrumbs, or french toast.

- **Freezing Items:** If you notice food that you can’t use in time, consider freezing it. Many fruits, vegetables, and even herbs can be frozen for later use, preserving their nutrients and flavor.

By optimizing your food storage, you not only extend the life of your groceries but also reduce food waste and its associated environmental impact. Taking these small steps contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.