Fruits and vegetables should be included in your diet all year long as they are important to our health and well-being. As health and nutrition experts continue to recommend we add more fruits and vegetables to a healthy daily diet, it becomes increasingly important that consumers know how to handle them properly.
There are many varieties available at your local grocery store, but sometimes it is a challenge to get them home in prime condition.
When shopping, be sure fresh fruits and vegetables are separated from household chemicals and raw foods such as meat, poultry and seafood in your cart and in bags at checkout.
Consider how you will transport the groceries to your home. If they are put in the main part of your vehicle, keep them away from the heater vents so warm air is not blowing on them. If the groceries are transported in the trunk of the vehicle, temperatures may be cold enough to damage your fresh produce. With a little extra planning, you should be able to get your groceries home in good condition.
If you have several errands to run, be sure to make the grocery store your last stop. If possible, have an insulated box or cooler in your vehicle to pack your fresh produce in. This will help protect them from the harsh, cold temperatures of South Dakota winters. If you keep a blanket in your vehicle, this can also be spread on top of your groceries for protection. Most fresh fruits and vegetables cannot tolerate temperatures below 32 degrees, and temperatures above 40 degrees can promote the growth of pathogens in cut fruits and vegetables.
Perishable foods should not be in the temperature danger zone of 40 degrees to 140 degrees for more than 2 hours. They will also freeze very quickly if left in extreme cold conditions. Don’t try to make a quick stop at the mall when you have your car loaded with groceries. Remember to always make the grocery store your last stop on your way home.
For more information on safe handling of fresh fruits and vegetables, access the Fight Bac! publication at www.fightbac.org