Some elderly loved ones don’t like to keep produce around because it can go bad before they’re able to eat it. These tips can help you to keep produce fresher for a much longer period of time.
Buy Produce When it’s in Season.
When you buy produce when it’s in season, it’s almost always fresher. It’s also much more likely to be from local farms than produce that is out of season. If you’re not sure when specific fruits and vegetables are in season, keep an eye on sale pricing at the grocery store because that can give you a big clue.
Check the Produce Carefully Before Buying It.
In the store, be sure to take the time to look produce over carefully before you buy it. Look for bruises or soft spots that could indicate that the fruit has taken a bit of a beating. Damaged fruits and vegetables aren’t likely to last as long once you get them home, so it’s a good idea to avoid them.
Avoid Over-purchasing.
If you’re in the habit of buying more produce than you or your family will eat before it goes bad, you probably find yourself tossing way too much of it. Start paying close attention to how much produce you’re likely to actually use and only buy that much. If you’re having someone else help with shopping, such as home care providers, let them know exactly how much produce to get.
Put Produce Away as Soon as You Bring it Home.
Letting produce sit out after you bring it home isn’t necessarily the worst thing that you can do, but it’s going to shorten the lifespan of some of your produce. Make it a habit to put refrigerated produce into the fridge right away and put other produce where it will store the best.
Wash Fruits and Vegetables Before Cutting or Eating Them.
You don’t have to clean fruits and vegetables before you put them away, but it’s a good practice to clean them well before you start cutting them. This helps to cut down the risk of contaminating the produce with exterior germs once you cut the produce open.
If your loved one is resistant to eating fruits and vegetables, try to ease them into her diet gradually.
If you or an aging loved one needs home care in Carmichael, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
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