How to keep lettuce fresher for much longer
Lettuce needs to be kept away from moisture to last and needs to be stored in an environment that will prevent moisture build-up.
The best way to store lettuce is in a container, which not only prevents moisture from spoiling lettuce but also protects it from other vegetables.
Many salad ingredients such as tomatoes, peppers and avocados paradise a natural growth hormone called ethylene gas, which emits a gas that triggers ripening but can cause other highly-senstive foods nearby to begin spoiling much more quickly.
Ollie said: “Salad should be stored in sealable containers in the fridge at 5 °C or less. Any higher than that will risk bacterium growth.
“Avoiding clammy herbs isn’t rocket science. Nor is it a big dill. And it certainly doesn’t take up much thyme. Here’s how to store salad to maximise freshness and make it last longer:”
Keeping lettuce in an airtight container helps maintain the right level of moisture and prevents bacteria from spoiling your greens. If you do not have a container, place them in a bag and seal it with a clothes peg or elastic band.
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When you come home from the shops, remove any plastic from your salad greens and then wash them.
Pat them down with a paper towel and make sure they are completely dry before placing them in a container alongside a clean paper towel.
Ollie explained: “Adding a paper towel to your bag or container will absorb the moisture, prevent bacteria from spreading, and slow down rot.”
Place the lettuce or salad in the fridge vegetable drawer to keep them cool and have fresh salad for much longer.
Olive said: “The best way to keep lettuce fresh is to store it in the fridge in a sealable container or wrapped in a kitchen roll.
“If you’ve bought a whole lettuce, don’t wash or chop it. Keeping it attached to the head will ensure it stays fresher for longer.”
This simple food storage will keep bagged or chopped-up lettuce fresh for roughly seven to ten days. A head of lettuce can last a few weeks in the fridge
Ollie added: “The grass may not always be greener on the other side, but your salads will be if you follow these simple steps.”
