We’ve all experienced the disappointment of buying poor-quality fruits and vegetables. Spending hours in the market, only to come home and realize that the fruits are bad is a frustrating reminder that produce isn’t always as fresh as it seems. However, you don’t have to worry about this at Fresh Connect. As a certified Thai fruit exporter, we know a thing or two about fruit and vegetables. We’ve pulled together our top tips on how to choose the freshest vegetables and fruits.
How to Pick Your Produce
Since fruit and vegetables are living things, understanding their seasons, storage, and harvesting methods is important. These factors can help you select the best produce.
Choose In-Season Produce
Buying in-season produce is a win-win for your wallet, health, and the environment. When fruits and vegetables are harvested at their peak, they are typically more flavorful, nutrient-rich, and affordable. Have you ever wondered why tomatoes taste so much better in the summer? While modern farming allows us to enjoy most produce year-round, shopping seasonally ensures you get the freshest picks.
Buy From Local Farmers
While supermarket produce sections offer convenience, there’s something truly special about visiting a farmers’ market. Not only can you often find better prices, but you also get to support local farmers and enjoy the freshest possible produce.
Ripen at Home
Allowing fruits and vegetables to ripen at home extends their shelf life. This prevents food waste and saves money. Buying underripe produce is also environmentally friendly as it helps conserve resources and minimize landfill contributions.
Store Items Properly
Certain tropical fruits, like mangoes, papayas, avocados, bananas, guavas, jackfruits and starfruit, continue to ripen after being picked. This is called climacteric ripening. You can let these fruits ripen on your countertop and then refrigerate them once they reach your desired ripeness to slow down the process.
Leafy greens and herbs should be stored in airtight containers, plastic bags, or produce bags lined with paper towels in your refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Use a damp paper towel to prevent drying for woody herbs like rosemary and thyme. Some delicate herbs like basil and cilantro can be stored upright in a jar of water, covered loosely with a plastic bag. This method can significantly extend the life of your produce.
Buy Only What You Need
While meal planning can save money and time, it’s important to remember that fresh produce has a shorter lifespan. To ensure maximum freshness, consider buying little and often.
Tips for Buying Tropical Fruits
- Mangoes: A ripe mango has a fruity aroma near the stem and gives slightly when squeezed. Avoid mangoes with black spots or wrinkles.
- Pineapples: A heavy pineapple with bright green leaves and a sweet aroma at the base is best.
- Papayas: Choose mostly yellow papayas that are slightly soft but not mushy. Avoid papayas that are too firm or have mushy spots.
- Durian: Ripe durians have a strong fragrance, soft flesh, and a firm husk without large cracks. Avoid fruits with large cracks in the shell.
- Rambutans: Look for bright red or orange skin with soft spines, avoiding dry or brittle ones.
- Mangosteens: Firm, glossy skin indicates a fresh mangosteen, while overripe ones are too soft.
- Dragon Fruit: Opt for bright skin with minimal blemishes and a slight give when pressed.
- Longans: Fresh longans have smooth, light brown skin without cracks or dryness.
Fresh Connect: Your Gateway to Premium Produce
Fresh Connect is your source of high-quality, fresh fruits and vegetables in Thailand. With over 29 years of experience, we’ve perfected the art of sourcing, handling, and exporting the country’s finest produce. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the freshest, most flavorful fruits and vegetables.
Our rigorous cultivation, harvesting, and transportation processes ensure that our products arrive at their destination in perfect condition. In addition to fresh produce, we offer a range of frozen vegetable options. We deliver exceptional Thai vegetables to markets worldwide through our efficient global supply chain. Our products are ideal for wholesalers, retailers, and food service establishments seeking premium ingredients. Browse our website to learn more about our products and services.
