Should leafy vegetables be wrapped in newspaper or cloth?

Question

Leafy vegetables: newspaper or cloth wrap? We compare these two popular storage methods to see which one keeps your greens fresher for longer.

Answer 1

Leafy vegetables should be wrapped in a slightly damp cloth or paper towel, then stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Avoid newspaper as the ink can transfer to the vegetables.

Detailed Explanation:

Wrapping leafy vegetables helps maintain their moisture and prevent them from wilting quickly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Wash the vegetables: Gently wash the leafy greens under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure to dry them thoroughly.

2. Dampen the cloth or paper towel: Lightly dampen a clean cloth or a few sheets of paper towel. It should be moist, not soaking wet.

3. Wrap the vegetables: Wrap the washed and dried leafy vegetables in the damp cloth or paper towel. This creates a humid environment that prevents them from drying out.

4. Store in a plastic bag: Place the wrapped vegetables in a perforated plastic bag or a reusable storage container with a lid slightly ajar. This helps maintain humidity while allowing for some air circulation.

5. Refrigerate: Store the bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. The crisper drawer is designed to maintain optimal humidity levels for produce.

Newspaper is not recommended because the ink can leach onto the vegetables, potentially contaminating them with harmful chemicals. While some older newspapers used soy-based inks, many modern newspapers use inks that are not food-safe.

Pro Tip:

Don't wash leafy greens until you're ready to use them. Washing them beforehand and then storing them wet can actually promote spoilage. If you do wash them, ensure they are completely dry before wrapping and storing.