An expert weighs in on the best way to store a head of lettuce.
This all-too-common experience made me wonder what the best way to store lettuce is.
Cutting the lettuce exposes more surface area to lose moisture, says Moyer.
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Microorganisms typically grow faster when moisture and oxygen are present.
As for temperature, theU.S.
Food and Drug Administrationrecommends keeping your refrigerator at or below 40F for ideal food storage.
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Its also key to watch which produce you keep with lettuce.
Dont store leafy greens near avocados, apples, or other varieties of produce that release a lot ofethylene.
Lettuce is sensitive to ethylene, which means it can spoil more quickly when stored near those foods.
Moyer suggests placing it in a bowl of ice water and letting it soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
What About Bagged Lettuce?
Bagged greens have a whole different set of rules than whole lettuce.
To keep it fresh, dont open it until youre ready to eat it.
Cut, bagged lettuce does not need to be rewashed at home, Moyer says.
