Like all root vegetables, beetroot tends to turn wrinkly and soft even before being cooked and can look very unappetising.
This is one of the leading contributors to food waste in UK households but is so easy to prevent with simple food storage hacks.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk Charles Haverfield, CEO of US Packaging & Wrapping has revealed his foolproof method to keep all kinds of beetroot fresh for as long as possible.
He said: “The skin of beetroot can wrinkle due to moisture loss and exposure to air. When beetroot loses moisture, its outer layer shrivels, resulting in wrinkled skin.
“Because of this, beetroot is best stored in a cool, humid environment with minimal air exposure, like the fridge.”
He continued: “It’s true that cooked beetroot is best stored in the refrigerator, preferably in the vegetable drawer.
”This area maintains slightly higher temperatures and optimal humidity levels, which help preserve the beetroot’s moisture content and prevent it from turning wrinkly.
”But the best way to store your beets is to vacuum seal them. By removing all air, there is less chance of bacteria growth which can spoil your beets.”
If it’s not possible to vacuum seal them again once the packaging has been opened, Charles recommended transferring the vegetables into a better container.
He added: “While keeping beets in the original packaging may offer some protection, you’re better off switching your packaging to prolong the shelf life.”
According to the food storage expert, this helps “maintain the freshness, flavour, and texture” of beets “for a longer period” compared to storing them in regular packaging.
While the shelf life of beetroot varies depending on how beetroot is stored, it can last for months with the right method.
Charles explained that cooked beetroot can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, but added: “If you don’t think you’ll eat your beetroots before then, you can also pop them in the freezer in a sealed container or freezer bag where they’ll keep for up to eight months.”
When it comes to raw beetroots, which are sold whole with the stalks still attached, a different approach is required for their longevity.
The storage professional explained: “Unlike cooked beets which are best stored in air-tight packaging, raw beetroot can be stored without any additional packaging.
“Storing them unwashed and uncut maintains their natural protective coating, which helps prevent moisture loss and spoilage.
“Beets should be stored in a cool, dark place with proper ventilation, such as a root cellar or the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator.”
