Stop wasting food with 9 easy tips

Most people don't realize how much food they throw away every day,  from uneaten leftovers to spoiled food.
As much as 40 percent of food is wasted in the US every year, and limiting food waste can be a major money saver when it comes to healthy eating.

Here are eight ways to help make your food last longer and save money.

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1. Prevent wilting greens

Wash and dry your greens, then wrap them in a few paper towels. The towels absorb moisture that can cause wilting.

2. Store your berries in the original container

You can also extend the life of your berries by briefly soaking them in a mild vinegar rinse.

3. Treat fresh herbs like flowers

Store upright in a glass or small vase filled with water or roughly chop them and place in an ice cube tray, and fill with water. Use as needed - one cube at a time - for fresh herb flavor.

4. Use cheesecloth to store hard cheeses

While used for many household functions, cheesecloth is a storage place for hard cheeses. Remove the plastic or wax paper cover, rewrap completely in cheesecloth and refrigerate. The air circulation helps keep them fresh.

5. Store mushrooms, garlic and onions in a dark, cool place

6. Separate potatoes and onions

While these are a natural combination in cooking, store them separately and don't mix them to avoid the potatoes from sprouting, which leads to spoilage. Room temperature is ideal.

7. Store fruits and vegetables separately

Apples, pears, plums, and apricots naturally release ethylene gas, which generally speeds up ripening and freshness of vegetables stored with them.

8. Avoid over-ripe bananas

Ethylene gas is also released from the top of a banana much. Wrap some plastic wrap around the top to slow ripening and extend freshness.