Are your carrots turning slimy or mouldy far too quickly? You're likely storing them incorrectly, according to a nutritionist who has shared a simple kitchen hack that can extend their shelf life dramatically.
The Common Storage Mistake We All Make
Nutritionist coach and cook Amanda Rocchio took to TikTok to explain that most of us are guilty of a fundamental error. We typically toss our carrots, whether whole or baby varieties, straight into the vegetable drawer of the fridge. However, this common practice is actually the reason they spoil prematurely.
Amanda highlighted that the humidity and fluctuating temperatures inside a fridge drawer are the main culprits. Every time the drawer opens, the temperature changes, compromising the carrots' quality. Furthermore, vegetable drawers often have higher humidity levels, which can cause mould, while inconsistent moisture leads to shrivelling.
The 'Proper Way' to Preserve Your Carrots
So, what is the correct method? Amanda's advice is straightforward and requires minimal effort. First, remove the carrots from any plastic packaging. Then, take a lidded container, place the carrots inside, and fill it with water until they are fully submerged.
The sealed, water-filled container should then be placed in the main body of the fridge, not in the drawer. This technique provides the consistent humidity and stable temperature that carrots need. Amanda states that using this method can make your carrots last for an impressive four weeks.
Maintaining Freshness and Saving Money
To ensure optimal results, remember to refresh the water in the container every five to six days. This step also helps maintain the carrots' desirable crispness. By adopting this simple practice, you can significantly reduce food waste and save money on your weekly grocery bills.
The revelation has surprised many social media users. One follower commented, "I have learned that I don't know how to adult. I haven't stored anything correctly so far!" Another confirmed the hack's effectiveness, writing, "This is very true. I started doing this and it was amazing how long the carrots lasted."
Some have even found the method works for other vegetables, with one user noting, "This is a great idea and it works. I also found out it works great with celery as well!"
