Controlled atmosphere: A storage method that regulates the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and temperature to prolong the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
Imagine a special room designed to keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. That’s essentially what controlled atmosphere storage is. By carefully adjusting the gases in the air and keeping the temperature just right, it slows down the ripening process and helps prevent spoilage. This method is often used to store apples, pears, and other produce that must be kept for extended periods.
You likely won’t have a full-scale controlled atmosphere storage room in a home garden setting. However, the concept is still relevant. Think about how you store your own harvested produce. Keeping fruits and vegetables in a cool, dark place with good ventilation can mimic some aspects of controlled atmosphere storage, helping them last longer. Also, understanding the ideal storage conditions for different types of produce can help you keep your harvest fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as health, wellness or nutrition advice. Please see our full disclaimers here.
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