13 Fruits and Vegetables That Stay Fresh

Stay fresh and fed — how to pick produce that lasts for months while at the grocery store
March 30, 2020 1 Comment 1.5 min read

As the Coronavirus has us all staying at home and regular trips to the grocery store are off the table, knowing what fruits and veggies last is the secret ingredient to keeping it fresh in the kitchen. While walking the aisles when it’s time to stock up, look for this list of nourishing produce below to support your body and mind in this stressful time. Not only will you be helping yourself stay healthy and fed, you’re also supporting a healthier planet by cutting back on food waste from produce gone bad.

2 – 4 Weeks

  • Oranges — High in vitamin C

1 – 2 Months

  • ApplesHigh in vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants and potassium.
  • Carrots — High in vitamin A, fiber and antioxidants too. Antioxidants fight free radicals in our bodies, which can cause damage on a cellular level.
  • Ginger Root — Keeps for a long while in the fridge and boosts the immune system.
  • Lemons and Limes — High in vitamin C.
  • Onions — High in vitamin C, potassium and B vitamins.
  • Pomegranate — High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Winter Squashes — Rich in vitamin A (like most orange-colored produce), vitamin B-6 and vitamin C. Squashes are also high in fiber and folate — fiber supports digestive health, soothing some viral symptoms.

2 – 3 Months

  • Cabbage — Contains vitamin K which is important for blood clotting, calcium regulation in the blood and bone health. Also a good source of vitamin C.
  • Grapefruit — High in vitamin C.

3+ Months

  • Beets — Great source of fiber, nitrates and folate that boost circulation and the immune system.
  • Garlic — Anti-inflammatory (which is great for bodies that are actively fighting off an infection). Allicin, a chemical found in garlic and onions, is antimicrobial (raw is best for this if you can stomach it).
  • Potatoes — All potatoes are packed with fiber and some vitamin C. Sweet potatoes in particular are high in vitamin A, carry higher levels of vitamin C and antioxidants.

What's Next?

Now that you have your shopping list ready to go, head over to our blog to learn how to put some of these root veggies to use!

About the Author

Zakiyaa Taylor is OMD’s North Carolina Field Organizer. She works with communities on the ground in North Carolina to change hearts and minds around plant-based eating by supporting school districts, community members and restaurant owners to co-create lasting change.

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