The lists below include produce that can be bought at your local farmers markets. Others can only be found at your local grocery store.

Store in the refrigerator 

• Some fruits can make others ripen faster. Keeping different fruits in separate produce drawers in the refrigerator will help them last longer.
• Use within 1-3 days for maximum flavor and freshness. 

Ripen on the counter 

• If fruits are hard to the touch, leave them on the counter to ripen and soften.
• Need fruit to ripen quickly? Try placing the fruit in a loosely closed brown paper bag with an apple to help it ripen quicker. Keep the bag on the counter away from sunlight.
• After ripening, store in the refrigerator and use within 1-3 days.

• Many fruits and vegetables should only be stored at room temperatures. Refrigeration can cause cold damage or prevent them from ripening to good flavor and texture. 
  • For example, tomatoes ripen to a better taste and red color if left at room temperature.  
• Keep away from direct sunlight.  

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Store Produce Safely guidelines