Aldi has issued a crucial fridge warning, advising shoppers to keep two specific fruits separate to maintain their freshness. The supermarket chain explains that certain fruits emit ethylene gas, which can accelerate the ripening and spoilage of other produce.
Why Separation Matters
Ethylene gas is a natural compound released by fruits as they ripen. While harmless to humans, it can cause nearby ethylene-sensitive fruits to spoil more quickly. Aldi recommends keeping high-ethylene emitters like bananas, apples, and tomatoes away from sensitive items such as berries, cherries, and grapes.
In their fridge and kitchen tips column, Aldi states: "Certain fruits and veggies like bananas, apples and tomatoes emit high levels of ethylene gas (a natural gas that's produced as fruit ripens), which can cause your other ethylene-sensitive produce, such as berries, cherries and grapes, to ripen and ruin faster – so keep them separate!"
Additional Tips for Berry Storage
Aldi also warns about mouldy berries. A single mouldy berry can quickly contaminate the entire punnet through microscopic spores. To prevent this, only wash berries just before eating to avoid adding unnecessary moisture that encourages mould growth.
Reviving Bendy Vegetables
For vegetables that have become limp or "bendy," Aldi suggests a simple trick: trim the ends and submerge them in cold water. Often, vegetables are not spoiled but merely dehydrated, and this method can restore their crispness.
Avoid Pre-Preparing Produce
To extend the life of fruits and vegetables, Aldi advises against pre-cutting or prepping them ahead of time. Keeping the outer skin intact until consumption helps preserve freshness and prevents premature spoilage. As the supermarket notes: "To help your fruit and veg last as long as possible, keep its outer armour intact until you're ready to eat it."
These tips from Aldi aim to help consumers reduce food waste and enjoy fresher produce for longer periods.
