Carrots and celery can be kept fresh and crunchy for weeks by storing them in a container of water in the fridge, according to wellness influencer Davina Cohan, known as @wellnesswithdavina on TikTok.
“This is the best way to store your celery and carrots and make sure they're always fresh and crunchy. Cut them up however you'd like and put them in a container of water. Set the container in the fridge and they'll stay crunchy for weeks,” she said.
Why the water trick works
The tip works because fridges are dry environments, while carrots and celery are high in water and slowly lose moisture to the air. When they lose water, their cells lose pressure, known as turgor, and they go floppy. Sitting them in water helps them stay hydrated, so they remain firm and crisp.
Limp vegetables can often perk back up after a soak because they reabsorb water.
Preparation and safety measures
For best results, wash and dry the carrots or celery before storing them in water and placing them in the fridge. Remove any soft, split, or damaged bits before storing, as spoilage can spread.
If following the storage hack, precautions are needed to avoid eating spoiled produce. Change the water every one to three days, and wash the container and lid between water changes to reduce contamination.
Keep a close eye on the celery and carrots for signs of slime or mould. Smelling the produce and looking for signs of fizzing are also ways to tell if food is turning. If there are any doubts about whether food is still fresh enough to eat, it is better to avoid it.
