How the Japanese keep vegetables fresh longer & you can too

             Written by: Ehsan Siddiqui

12 November 2025

Think of all those times when you had to toss your groceries in the trash just because they spoiled faster than you expected. What if there is a way to keep your veggies fresh for longer? Well, there are ways, ask the Japanese.

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Before you store your veggies, clean them properly, remove rubber bands, ties, or any spoiled pieces. Then give me a rinse and dry properly before storing them.

Clean Before You Store

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The fridge often dehydrates food rapidly; to balance this, wrap your veggies and fruits in a clean and wet cotton cloth or a damp paper towel. This will trap moisture while allowing air flow, keeping your food fresh.

Humidity Wrap

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Plastic traps ethylene gas, causing your food to degrade faster. Use mesh bags or breathable fabrics while storing vegetables to ensure adequate air circulation. 

Throw Away Plastic Bags

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When storing leafy greens like spinach, coriander, or fenugreek, do not clip the stems. Keeping the stems helps to retain moisture and keeps the leaves fresh for longer. 

Keep the Stems

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Not all produce is meant to be kept cold. Store potatoes, onions, garlic, and tomatoes outside of the refrigerator in a cool, dry, and dark place. Cold can negatively affect their texture and dull their natural flavor.

Don't Refrigerate Everything

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