A chef has shared a simple kitchen hack that can keep lettuce fresh for up to four weeks, helping households save money and reduce food waste.
How the hack works
Chef Charles Kim, known online as 'Chef Fatty', demonstrated the method in a social media video. He said wrapping a head of lettuce in aluminium foil before placing it in the fridge can extend its shelf life significantly.
"Hey, don't forget to wrap your lettuce in aluminium foil, because this will keep out the negative energy," he joked. He then explained that the foil allows the lettuce to stay fresh for 'up to four weeks in the fridge'.
Why aluminium foil helps
Kim explained the science behind the trick. Lettuce goes bad when exposed to ethylene gas, which is produced by other foods in the fridge as they spoil. Excess moisture and light also speed up spoilage.
"It protects it from the gas quite a bit. Protects it from moisture by allowing some gases to escape and blocks the light," he said.
Other vegetables it works for
The hack is not limited to lettuce. It works well for other low-acid vegetables such as celery, broccoli, cucumbers, and courgette. However, Kim advised against using foil on tomatoes or citrus fruits, as the acid can react with the aluminium, causing pitting or a metallic taste.
He also recommended washing and completely drying vegetables before wrapping them to prevent mould growth.
Reaction from viewers
People praised the chef for the tip. One person commented: "What was the point of going to school if this isn't what I learned." Another said: "It truly works so well. It's actually mind blowing. I had many heads of lettuce last easily four weeks if not longer since I started doing this." A third added: "I wrap mine in paper towels, then put them in a plastic baggie and remove the air. Lasts forever."
