Should apples be kept in the refrigerator? How to keep fruits and vegetables in good condition
A recent report highlights the significant food waste occurring in Spanish households, with fruits and vegetables accounting for nearly half of this waste.
A new study conducted by Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food reveals that food waste remains a pressing issue, with 67.1% of households discarding food in 2024, although this number reflects a slight decrease from the previous year. The findings indicate an improved management of certain products such as bread, vegetables, and wines, where 7.28 million kilos or liters of waste were reduced. Conversely, the mismanagement of fruits, liquid milk, and pasta has exacerbated the situation, with a notable increase in waste associated with fresh fruits.
Particularly, oranges have shown the most significant rise in waste, growing by 8.4% among the total discarded fruits, signaling a growing trend in food waste that relates directly to consumer habits and storage practices. The article emphasizes the importance of proper storage techniques for prolonging the life of produce, which could help combat the ongoing problem of food waste.
In light of these findings, El PaÃs provides recommendations on how to properly preserve fruits and vegetables, encouraging readers to adopt practices that will minimize waste. The implications of the ongoing food waste crisis in households underscore the necessity for increased awareness and education regarding food storage, thereby contributing to broader efforts to reduce overall waste in Spain and improve sustainability.