Learn about the ideal fridge humidity for leafy greens. Find out how to use your crisper drawer settings to keep greens from wilting prematurely.
1 Answer
The ideal humidity level for storing leafy greens in a fridge drawer is between 90-95%. This high humidity prevents wilting and keeps them crisp.
Detailed Explanation:
Leafy greens, like lettuce, spinach, and kale, are mostly water. When stored in a refrigerator, they tend to lose moisture to the drier environment, leading to wilting and a loss of crispness. Maintaining a high humidity level around these greens helps to slow down this moisture loss.
Most refrigerators have a crisper drawer specifically designed for produce. These drawers often have humidity controls that allow you to adjust the airflow. For leafy greens, you should set the control to the highest humidity setting. If your crisper drawer doesn't have humidity controls, you can still create a humid environment by storing the greens in a plastic bag or container with a slightly damp paper towel. The moisture from the towel will help maintain the necessary humidity.
It's important to note that while high humidity is beneficial, excessive moisture can lead to spoilage. Therefore, avoid washing the greens before storing them, as this can introduce too much moisture. Wash them only when you're ready to use them.
Pro Tip:
To further extend the shelf life of your leafy greens, wrap them loosely in a paper towel before placing them in a plastic bag or container. The paper towel will absorb excess moisture, preventing them from becoming soggy and spoiling quickly.