Alsum Produce, Inc.

 

Fruit and Veggies Tips

Potatoesminimize shrink

Buying/Storage

  • Potatoes should be fairly clean and firm.
  • Avoid potatoes that are greening, have wilted skins, large cuts, or that are badly sprouted.
  • Handle potatoes carefully as they bruise easily.
  • After bringing potatoes home, carefully inspect them for cuts or bruises. If you find potatoes with cuts and bruises use them first.
  • Do NOT wash potatoes before storing them. Dampness increases the likelihood of decay.
  • The ideal temperature for potatoes to be stored is 45-50°F. Potatoes should be stored in a dark place with good ventilation. If potatoes are stored in warmer temperatures, they should be used within a week as warmer temps encourage sprouting and shriveling.
  • Potatoes stored below 40°F tend to have a sweet taste due to some of the starch changing into sugar.

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Onions

Buying/Storage

  • Look for onions that are dry and firm and have no mold or sprouting.
  • Onions should be stored in a cool, dry place that has good ventilation.
  • Onions store well in mesh bags but not plastic bags due to lack of ventilation.
  • Sliced or chopped onions store up to 7 days in the refrigerator in plastic containers.
  • Do not store onions with potatoes or other fruits/veggies that release moisture.

Apples

Buying/Storage

  • Apples should be firm, crisp, and shiny.
  • Avoid buying apples with bruises or punctures.
  • Store in refrigerator at around 32oF; left on countertops, apples lose crispiness.

Oranges

Buying/Storage

  • Oranges should be firm, with bright colorful skins.
  • Avoid oranges that have wrinkled, bruised, or discolored skin as this indicates that they were improperly stored.
  • Oranges will store at room temperature for several days.
  • For longer-term storage, store oranges in plastic bags or the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.