Correct storage key to reducing food waste

Learning to store fresh produce correctly could help consumers extend the life span of their food, helping to reduce the amount of food that is thrown out each year.

A new study commissioned by KitchenAid shows that Canadians spend around $40.80 each week on fresh produce, but will throw out close to 10% of this. Of the Canadians surveyed, 39% were not aware that certain fruits and vegetables should be stored separately to keep them fresh.

Apples and green onions emit ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process in other produce. Spinach and sweet potatoes are particularly sensitive to this gas and should be stored separately, KitchenAid says.

“With more than half of Canadians (55%) willing to pay more for premium fruits and vegetables, be it organic, locally grown or fair trade, it’s important to know what they can do to extend the lifespan of their food,” the KitchenAid report said.

Lettuce is the most frequently thrown out produce, followed by bananas, tomatoes, grapes and celery.

KitchenAid has developed a refrigerator range that it says deals with humidity, ethylene gas and odours, which can all contribute to over-ripening. The refrigerators have separate systems, one which absorbs ethylene gas and an air filter that reduces odours.

The study was conducted by Leger and surveyed 1501 Canadians in May 2013.