How can you prevent mold on fresh fruits and veggies?

Question

I've started going to the local Farmer's Market lately. I've been careful in selection of my fresh fruit and veggies, but I've noticed that no matter how perfect what I pick is, within a day or two, I notice mold growth (especially on my blackberries). I thoroughly wash everything after I bring it home and before eating, but this is getting annoying, to say the least. Any advice?

Yup, I do keep most of what I purchase in the fridge. The only exception would be the Pears and Onions. I keep everything else chilled because most of what's sold at my farmer's market is close enough to ripe to not make it much of an issue (like with tomatos)

Answer 1

that's your problem: don't wash the food right after you bring them home! wash whatever you need before you do actually eat it! it sounds weird, but the dirt and stuff on the food actually protects mold and bacteria.

Answer 2

Dont wash the berries and store them in the fridge. They will get mold.
When you are ready to eat the berries, simply wash them and eat.
I wash my lettuce using a salad spinner. I then put the leaves in a zip lock plastic bag and store it in the vegetable bin in the fridge. It last for about a week and does not go bad. I do the same with grapes. I also wash apples, pears etc and place them in the fridge.

Answer 3

Are you keeping them in the refridgerator? They should last longer than that. If so, are they in a sealed container and perhaps not getting air flow to dry them off?

Answer 4

y dont you freeze the fruit if you are planning to keep it for a while and then defrost it before eating

Answer 5

you have got to keep then cool, whether you get irrigation systems put it or just stick them in your fridge, or put a sheet over your garden at night to help keep them cool and insulated.

Answer 6

eat them faster