The key is proper temperature and humidity.

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We eat a lot of green beans.

Sometimes, they linger too long in the fridge, and they come out slimy and inedible.

close up of raw green beans on a cutting board

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Clearly, I need a better way to keep them in their prime, so I asked an expert.

Green beans are highly sensitive to moisture loss.

They should last about one week when stored this way.

wooden bowl of raw green beans

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But you could improve storage even more by adding a few paper towels.

Slip a paper towel in the plastic bag the beans came in, Marcus suggests.

Add a few holes for ventilation and always wait to wash them until just before use.

bowl of green beans, ends snapped

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Loosely cover the container with its lid or plastic wrap, leaving a gap for airflow, says Marcus.

You may get a few more days out of them using this method!

Washing adds moisture which, over time, promotes spoilage and microbial growth, says Mok.

If you know that you wont eat all your beans for a while, then consider freezing them.

Once theyve cooled, store beans in an airtight bag in the freezer.