To keep fruits fresh longer during the Lunar New Year, you can apply the following tips:
Oranges, lemons, pomelos: Use lime to brush the stem end. This helps to prevent the fruits from drying out and keeps them fresh.
Apples, bananas, pears: To avoid browning, sprinkle some lemon juice on the fruits. The lemon juice will help preserve the natural color of the fruits.
Watermelon: Place the whole fruit in a 15% saltwater solution for about half an hour, then dry the melon, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. This helps retain moisture and prevents aging.
Cucumbers: Submerge the stem end in diluted saltwater, filling about 1/3 of the fruit, and place it in a cool place or refrigerator. Replace the water daily to ensure the cucumber stays fresh throughout the week.
In addition, to preserve fruits after purchase, remove any damaged or overly ripe ones and use a knife to cut away the spoiled parts. Avoid washing fruits before putting them in the refrigerator, only wash them right before consuming.
For storage, you can use mesh bags to allow air circulation and reduce impact during arrangement. If using plastic bags or food containers, make sure there are holes for air circulation, allowing the fruits to “breathe” and stay fresh longer.
Lastly, using old newspaper is a great way to keep fruits fresh. You can wrap each type of fruit individually before putting them in the refrigerator, preventing them from being crushed and limiting water absorption.
When storing fruits in the refrigerator, avoid mixing them with other types of food such as vegetables or beverages. Instead, arrange them separately to extend their shelf life.