Tips for your produce

I thought I'd share some tips I've found to keep my produce fresh and make it last longer:

1.  I bought a box of "Debbie Meyer Green Bags" at Bed Bath and Beyond ($9.99).  It comes with 20 bags and they can be used 8-10 times each.  I place similar items in their own bag and leave them open or follow the instructions, either way.  I don't wash my produce until I'm ready to use them, but you can wash them first if you choose to, just make sure they are completely dry before putting them in the green bags.  It keeps them fresh and yummy longer. 

2.  I love the A to Z Produce website:  www.azproduce.net
You can type in the veggie or fruit that you are interested in and it will tell how best to store it, when the best time to buy it is and even some recipes of how to use it.

3.  I know what my family will eat and what they won't (although I am mean and make them try new things too), so I like to trade around with others in the coop or on the extras table.  My family really won't eat mushrooms, but if Jen likes mushrooms then we can trade something her family won't eat.  So don't be afraid to trade around a bit with each other (I'll send out a list of everyone in the group so you know who to talk to).

4.  Make sure you pick up your produce within an hour of our notification.  You may have to make arrangements for a neighbor or family member to pick it up for you.  We can't store everyone's basket all day long and keep it fresh, and they can't sit in the garage without getting ruined especially in this heat.  So be aware and make plans for what you need to give your produce a good start.  Remember there are 24 of us in the coop and we all live close enough to help someone out if we can.

I hope these tips help you keep your produce fresher longer.  If anyone has any suggestions please feel free to post them as well.  This is so exciting and I can't wait to hear your thoughts and tips and maybe even recipes you've tried with your produce each week :)

Thanks,
Alicia and Jen