Simple, Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Single-Use Plastics

At Durbl, we recognize the refrigerator as the kitchen's unsung hero, essential for keeping food fresh and preventing harmful bacteria growth. To maximize freshness and efficiency, set your fridge temperature to 38-40°F (3-4°C), and follow essential food storage rules. Ideal Refrigerator Temperature The USDA recommends keeping the fridge temperature at or below 40°F (4°C), but it is best to set it between 37-40°F. This range inhibits the growth of bacteria, which cause food spoilage and foodborne illnesses. The ideal freezer temperature is 0°F (-17°C).If your fridge lacks a temperature gauge, some fridges use single digits to indicate cooling power. Generally, higher settings mean colder temperatures, but check the user manual to be sure. Using a refrigerator thermometer can help ensure the correct temperature. Importance of Proper Temperature 1. Prevent Bacteria Growth: Appropriate temperature settings inhibit the growth of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria.2. Enhance Energy Efficiency: Correct settings save energy and reduce electricity bills. Tips for Maintaining Freshness 1. Use Sealed Storage Containers: Airtight containers prevent odors, air, and moisture from affecting food.2. Opt for Reusable Silicone Bags: These eco-friendly options help maintain food freshness.3. Allow Food to Breathe: Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper airflow and consistent cooling.4. Understand Ethylene Production: Store ethylene-producing fruits separately from ethylene-sensitive foods.5. Utilize the Crisper Drawer: Adjust humidity levels based on the type of produce stored.6. Room Temperature Storage: Store items like onions, garlic, and certain fruits outside the fridge.7. Check Expiration Dates: Prioritize using older items to minimize waste.8. First In, First Out Rule: Rotate older items to the front to ensure they are used first.9. Minimize Door Opening: Keeping the door closed maintains a stable temperature.10. Regular Maintenance: Check and clean seals and vents to ensure efficient operation.11. Use the Freezer Wisely: Freeze fresh foods to extend their shelf life and free up fridge space.By following these tips, you can ensure your food stays fresh longer, reduce waste, and save money. Proper food storage is essential for maintaining a healthy and efficient kitchen.

Whether you want a healthy snack or a quick meal, using a Durbl bag or container to prepare instant ramen is an eco-friendly and convenient option. Here’s a simple recipe and method: Ingredients: 1 pack of ramen noodles Handful of shredded carrots 2-3 sliced mushrooms Handful of spinach 1/2 to 3/4 cup diced firm tofu 1 tsp vegetable stock powder 2 tsp white miso Handful of chopped green onions Pinch of sesame seeds 2 cups water (or as per package instructions) Steps: Using Hot Water: Place all ingredients in a Durbl Half-Gallon Bag or Durbl Container Mega. Add 2 cups of boiling water and seal the bag or container. Let the noodles soak for 2-4 minutes until they soften. Open the bag, add your favorite seasonings like chili paste, curry paste, or sesame oil, and mix well before enjoying. Using Microwave: Place all ingredients in a Durbl Half-Gallon Bag or Durbl Container Mega and add cold water. Microwave the unsealed bag or container until the water boils. (Ensure the bag is slightly open or the container valve is open during heating.) Carefully remove, seal, and let it sit for 2-4 minutes to cook the noodles. Add your preferred seasonings, mix well, and enjoy. Using Durbl bags or containers not only helps the environment but also makes it easy to prepare a healthy meal at home or the office.

At Durbl, we emphasize maintaining a neat and organized refrigerator. Proper food storage reduces waste, enhances flavor, and saves money. Here’s a guide on how long different foods last in the fridge and some storage tips. Meat, Poultry, and Fish Beef, Lamb, Pork (Steaks and Roasts): 3-5 days Ground Meat: 1-2 days Cooked Meats: 3-4 days Bacon: 1 week Lunch Meats: 2 weeks unopened, 3-5 days after opening Raw Chicken: 1-2 days Cooked Chicken: 3-4 days Lean Fish: 1-2 days Cooked Fish: 3-4 days Dairy Butter: 1-3 months Cream Cheese: 2 weeks Cottage Cheese: 1 week after opening, 2 weeks unopened Shredded Cheese: 1 week after opening, 1 month unopened Yogurt: 1-2 weeks Milk: 1 week Tofu: 3 weeks Produce Apples: 3 weeks Avocados: 3-4 days Berries, Cherries: 1-2 days Grapes: 1 week Asparagus: 3-4 days Carrots: 3 weeks Celery: 1-2 weeks Leafy Greens: 3-7 days Cut Fruit: 4 days after opening Cold Storage Tips 1. Regular Cleaning: Clean up spills immediately and do a thorough cleaning weekly.2. Check Leftovers Daily: Discard food if you notice changes in texture, color, or smell.3. Proper Placement: Store highly perishable items on the middle shelf where temperatures are stable.4. Moisture Control: Place a dry washcloth with salads to absorb excess moisture.5. Use Reusable Silicone Bags: Store deli meats in Durbl’s food-grade silicone bags to reduce plastic waste and keep food fresh longer. Correct food storage extends shelf life, maintains freshness, and reduces waste. Follow these guidelines to make the most of your fridge space and keep your kitchen tidy. For more smart storage solutions, check out Durbl’s sustainable kitchen product range.