Fresh greens are known for wilting and spoiling fast, typically within two days of buying them, which can be frustrating, especially when trying to minimise food waste and food costs.
Fortunately, there are several cost-effective ways to keep them fresher for longer, including a 50p flour sack towel hack.
CEO of Mary’s Kitchen Flour Sack Towels, Allen Civlak, said: “A moist flour sack towel can help to maintain the perfect consistent moisture balance that leafy greens need to stay fresh and crisp.
“Unlike plastic bags or containers that can trap too much moisture and create a humid environment, leading to rot, flour sack towels are breathable.
“This breathability allows excess moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of mould and decay while keeping greens sufficiently hydrated.”
The damp towel helps to maintain a cooler micro-environment around the greens when they are stored in the fridge.
Cooler temperatures slow down the metabolic processes of the greens, extending their freshness for “10 days longer”.
Start by making the towel slightly damp, but ensure it is not soaking wet.
Lay the towel flat on the countertop or a key surface before placing the leafy greens in the centre of the towel covering them completely.
Make sure the towel is snug around the greens but not too tight, allowing for air circulation.
Flour sack towels can be purchased from many retailers, for as little as 50p per sack.
Another hack which homeowners are more likely to be able to do immediately is using aluminium foil.
According to the expert, this is also great for keeping greens fresh because it creates a protective barrier which creates the ideal moisture level while also preventing exposure to air and light.
The expert continued: “It helps to lock in water, preventing greens from drying out too quickly, and creates a tight seal around the greens, minimising air exposure.
“This helps to slow down the oxidation process, which can cause greens to deteriorate and become limp.
“Finally, the aluminium foil helps to regulate temperature by providing insulation. This is useful in the fridge, where fluctuations in temperature can accelerate spoilage.”
According to the pro, both of these hacks work extremely well, keeping any greens fresh for as long as 12 days.
