It is common sense that lettuce should be placed in the fridge, but if not stored using the correct method it will begin to wilt or even go slimy.
Lettuce is a highly sensitive vegetable due to its high moisture level, and will quickly begin to rot when exposed to the very dry environment inside the fridge.
This leafy green can also begin to spoil when near certain salad ingredients such as tomatoes, avocados and bell peppers.
These vegetables or fruits produce ethylene gas, a natural growth hormone which emits a gas to trigger ripening but can cause nearby food to spoil at a faster rate.
This is why sticking lettuce in your vegetable drawer without a second thought can cause it to spoil within days when it should last two weeks or more according to expert Nicole Keshishian (@kalejunkie), a cookbook author and recipe developer,
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Nicole said: “The towel will ensure that the excess moisture from the lettuce is being absorbed so that it stays fresh for longer!”
Not only does this method help the lettuce keep its moisture, but it acts as a barrier if the lettuce is stored near fruits or veggies producing ethylene gas, meaning, which helps keep the lettuce fresher for much longer. ‘
You will be able to enjoy crispy salad or fresh sandwiches for weeks according to Nicole, saving you some money on your lunches.
Nicole said: “With this simple and easy kitchen hack, your lettuce will stay fresh for up to two plus weeks, making your days of limp lettuce a thing of the past!
“The best part is, this hack works with all types of lettuce, making it a versatile hack to keep in your back pocket.”