Refrigerator Hack Extends Cucumber Freshness Up To Two Weeks, Experts Say
Riga, Latvia – A simple kitchen trick involving a common metal utensil is extending the shelf life of cucumbers by up to two weeks, according to storage experts. The method,gaining traction online,promises to reduce food waste and maintain cucumber crispness far beyond typical storage durations.
while seemingly counterintuitive,placing a metal spoon inside an airtight container with cucumbers creates a more stable temperature habitat,slowing down deterioration. This is especially relevant as households grapple with rising grocery costs and seek ways to maximize the lifespan of fresh produce. The technique impacts anyone who buys cucumbers,perhaps saving consumers money and reducing trips to the store.
according to an expert,the process is straightforward: “Put the cucumbers in a glass or plastic container with a tightly closed lid. also place a metal spoon in the container. Close the lid and store for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.” The spoon helps maintain a stable temperature, considerably extending freshness.
Optimal storage also involves placing the container on the middle or upper shelf of the refrigerator, avoiding areas near ventilation or the freezer, as cucumbers are susceptible to “cold damage.” A paper towel within the container will absorb excess moisture.
Furthermore, cucumbers should be stored separately from tomatoes. Tomatoes release ethylene gas, an invisible and odorless substance that accelerates ripening – and spoilage – in nearby produce. “Ethylene is an invisible and odorless substance that helps to ripen the fruit, but at the same time speeds up other products in the vicinity,” experts explain.
Implementing this simple storage method can keep cucumbers fresh and crisp for up to two weeks longer than usual, offering a practical solution for preserving produce and minimizing food waste.