COLDIRETTI - THE HEAT PUTS 1 IN 4 FRUITS AT RISK. A GUIDE FOR SHOPPING: HOW TO KEEP EATING FRUIT FIVE TIMES A DAY WHILE SAVING MONEY

With the higher temperatures of summer doctors recommend, above all for children and the elderly, an increase in the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables, eating at least five servings per day.

Unfortunately, circumstances have made this a costly endeavor. Due to early heat spells this year, excessive fruit maturation has resulted in an increased 25% product loss during transportation, conservation, and commerce. Thus, 1 in 4 fruits risk perishing before being eaten. But to avoid throwing away more than is necessary, the Italian agricultural union Coldiretti has created a ten point rulebook on how to save on and maintain fruit acquisitions.

Coldiretti emphasizes that it is best to reduce the amount of acquisitions but to increase the frequency. It is also important to be aware of the ripeness of fruit that is to be acquired, that it is not overripe or too bruised. Locally produced varieties are better because they have not undergone long transportation periods. Fruits in season are more likely to have undergone natural ripening processes. And it is better to buy whole fruits rather than those already chopped or sliced.

As for transporting fruit, it is best to make acquisitions shortly before returning home to avoid leaving fruit in hot conditions that will accelerate ripening. And it is preferable to package fruit in paper rather than plastic bags.

Once home, it is then important to separate the fruit for short term consumption from that which may be eaten at a later date. Fruit that will be eaten quickly can be left out, possibly covered by a dish towel and away from sunlight, while that to be eaten at a later date should be stored in the refrigerator. And, finally, fruit should always be laid out in its container to avoid bruising and rotting.