Keeping Produce Perky
I’m always so irked when I find something in my produce drawer that is starting to shrivel, and as I try to work more and more local foods into my diet, I seem to go overboard sometimes at the Farmer’s Market and buy a little more produce than is really needed for just my husband and I. So recently, I started using the Ever-Fresh Green Bags to help extend the life of my fruits and veggies and they really work!
I’m no scientist so I’ll tell you that Evert Fresh explains that the natural minerals within the bags minimize moisture and absorb the harmful gasses like ammonia and carbon dioxide before they start attacking the fruit or vegetable. This not only extends the flavor and texture of the produce but it extends the nutritional value by slowing down the ripening process. All you have to do is wash and thoroughly dry your produce and then place it in separate bags, folding over the top of the bag. Once you have finished the produce in the bag, you can rinse, dry, and re-use! Get a pack in one of three sizes here or here.
They might keep food fresh, but I’m not so sure how “green” they are. They are made from a mixture of clay and low density polyethylene plastic, the kind of plastic that disposable grocery bags are made from. The clay, while keeping the produce fresh, also keeps the bags from being recyclable.
I guess it’s a trade off. For myself, it’s not worth the plastic waste in the environment. You may feel differently.
Comment by Beth Terry — November 7, 2007
Thanks for the feedback Beth! I had not realized that the “secret ingredient” keeps the bags from being recycled. I guess the good news though is that with adequate care they can be re-used over and over again.
Comment by Liz — November 7, 2007
i watched that whole commercial - i think debbie meyer puts her uncut tomatoes in the refrigerator!
Comment by renée — November 7, 2007