Quality produce is putting money where our mouth is

(NC) As farmers' markets bustle again with harvesting activity, it is clear that Canadians continue to embrace the local and organic food movement, even if it costs them more at the check-out. In fact, according to a survey commissioned by the KitchenAid brand, 55 per cent of Canadians are willing to pay more for premium fruits and vegetables, be it organic, locally grown, or free trade.

We can buy in abundance, but the biggest challenge is keeping it fresh and preventing spoilage. Take a look at these tips to preserve your premium fruits and vegetables long enough to enjoy them:

Keep them separated: Understand that some fruits and vegetables shouldn't be stored together. Apples, a fall favourite, produce a gas called ethylene as they ripen. This gas can prematurely ripen foods that are sensitive to it, like yams, so be sure to keep ethylene-producing foods away from ethylene-sensitive foods.

Embrace new technology: Today you can actually get refrigerators that help prolong the life of produce. This is especially important if you are buying from a farm or roadside stand, since local fruits and vegetables are allowed to fully ripen before being harvested. They will require proper refrigeration to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage. Retailers tell us that KitchenAid refrigerators with the Preserva food care system are equipped to tackle ethylene gas, humidity, temperature control and odours – all of which contribute to the over-ripening of fruits and veggies. This refrigeration innovation can actually help keep food fresher, longer – lettuce, for example can last up to four days longer.

Resurrect your vegetables: When your veggies begin to lose their lustre, try placing them in ice water for several minutes. The cool water permeates the skin and restores crispness. Another option is to add these veggies to soups, stews and stir fries to use them up before they spoil.

Know when it's time to toss: Dispose of rotten fruits and vegetables straight away as they can quickly spoil or contaminate other foods.

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Susan 

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