If you’ve ever opened your fridge to find slimy cucumbers, wilted lettuce, or mouldy berries just days after grocery shopping, you’re not alone. Proper produce storage can make the difference between stress-free meal prep and wasted food.
The good news is that with a few simple storage techniques, your fruits and vegetables can stay fresh, crisp, and delicious for days—or even weeks—longer.
If meal prep is part of your routine, you may also enjoy our meal prep–friendly recipes here: Meal Prep Meals
General Produce Storage Rules
Before storing individual fruits and vegetables, keep these general rules in mind:
- Dry produce lasts longer. Excess moisture leads to mould and spoilage.
- Airtight containers are usually best when paired with proper moisture control.
- Paper towels help regulate humidity inside containers.
- Cut produce spoils faster than whole produce, so only prep what you will use within a few days.
For more kitchen efficiency tips, visit our Kitchen Tips & How-To Guides:
Kitchen Tips & Tricks
How to Store Vegetables for Maximum Freshness
Carrots (Whole or Cut)
Best method: Submerged in water in an airtight container
Peel and cut if desired, then fully submerge the carrots in cold water. Change the water every three to four days.
How long they last:
Up to two to three weeks
Carrots stored this way are perfect for snacks, salads, and cooked meals like soups and stews. Try them in our recipes here: Recipes Using Carrots
Cucumbers
Whole cucumbers:
Store dry in an airtight container or the produce drawer.
Cut cucumbers:
Store in an airtight container with a paper towel underneath to absorb excess moisture.
How long they last:
- Whole: 10–14 days
- Cut: 3–4 days
Avoid storing cucumbers in water, as this causes sliminess.
Use fresh cucumbers in our refreshing salads and sides: Salad Recipes
Lettuce (Romaine, Butter, Iceberg)
Best method: Dry storage with paper towels
Wash lettuce thoroughly and dry completely using a salad spinner or clean towels. Line an airtight container with paper towels, add the lettuce, and place another paper towel on top before sealing.
How long it lasts:
7–10 days
This method works especially well for weekly salad prep. Find inspiration here: Healthy Salad Recipes
Bell Peppers
Whole peppers:
Store dry in an airtight container or produce drawer.
Cut peppers:
Store in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
How long they last:
- Whole: 2–3 weeks
- Cut: 4–5 days
Bell peppers are great for sheet pan meals and stir-fries. Try them in: Easy Dinner Recipes
Tomatoes
Whole tomatoes:
Store at room temperature for best flavor. Refrigerate only when very ripe.
Cut tomatoes:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge, cut side down.
How long they last:
- Whole: 5–7 days
- Cut: 2–3 days
For tomato-based meals and sauces, browse:
Tomato Recipes
How to Store Fruit for Meal Prep
Strawberries
Best method: Dry storage in an airtight container 
For longer freshness, optionally wash strawberries quickly in a solution of one part vinegar to three parts water, rinse well, and dry completely. Line an airtight container with paper towels and store strawberries with stems intact.
How long they last:
7–10 days
Perfect for breakfasts and desserts. Try them in:
Breakfast & Dessert Recipes
Blueberries
Best method: Dry and unwashed 
Store blueberries in their original container or a loosely sealed container. Wash only right before eating.
How long they last:
10–14 days
Add them to smoothies, oatmeal, or baking recipes found here:
Blueberry Recipes
Apples
Best method: Airtight container or produce drawer 
Store apples whole and away from other produce when possible, as they release ethylene gas that speeds ripening.
How long they last:
3–4 weeks
Apples work beautifully in snacks and desserts. Explore ideas here:
Apple Recipes
Oranges
Best method: Breathable container in the refrigerator 
Avoid sealing oranges tightly and do not store them in water.
How long they last:
2–3 weeks
Use oranges in both sweet and savoury dishes:
Orange Chicken
Produce Storage Cheat Sheet
Produce | Best Storage Method |
Carrots | Submerged in water, airtight container |
Cucumbers | Dry, airtight container with paper towel |
Lettuce | Dry, airtight container with paper towels |
Bell peppers | Dry, airtight container |
Tomatoes | Whole at room temperature |
Strawberries | Dry, airtight container with paper towel |
Blueberries | Dry, unwashed |
Apples | Airtight container or produce drawer |
Oranges | Breathable container in the refrigerator |
A Simple Meal Prep Storage System
For an easy setup that works for most fruits and vegetables:
- Use glass airtight containers
- Add paper towels to control moisture
- Store carrots in water only
- Avoid strainers unless elevated to prevent trapped moisture
Here are some of our favourites again:
This system pairs perfectly with weekly meal planning. Start here:
Weekly Meal Planning Guide.
Final Thoughts
Proper produce storage does not have to be complicated. With a few small changes, you can extend the life of your groceries, reduce food waste, and make meal prep easier and more enjoyable.
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