Can I use plastic freezer bags to store produce in the fridge?

“For some products, heavy bags are okay, but not for others,” says food scientist Dr. Karin Allen.  “Fruits and vegetables in the fridge are still respiring (giving off gas), which causes them to rot.  Heavy bags won’t allow normal gas exchange—letting ethylene out and oxygen flow back and forth.  You want to maintain a delicate balance.  Also, heavy bags cost more, so don’t use them if they’re going to be harmful or not helpful.”

Source(s):

Karin E. Allen, Ph.D., Utah State University, Dept. of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences

General Guidelines for Wrapping Foods

What’s better for wrapping food—plastic or aluminum foil?

What produce needs to be wrapped before refrigerating?

Should I wrap raw vegetables loosely or tightly before refrigerating?

How should fruits be wrapped before refrigeration?

Can I refrigerate meat and poultry in its store wrapping?

How should food be handled and wrapped for freezing?

Using Plastic Wraps, Bags, and Containers

Are some plastic wraps more effective than others?

Can chemicals leach unto food from plastic wrap or containers?

Are any plastic wraps or containers really “microwave safe”?

Do coated plastic bags really help produce last longer?

Using Aluminum Foil Properly

What are some advantages and disadvantages of aluminum foil?

Does exposure to aluminum cause Alzheimer’s disease?

Does aluminum foil give foods a metallic taste?

Why does foil sometimes darken, discolor, and leave black specks on food?

Will a foil cover help keep foods on the table hot or cold?

Is it safe to use aluminum foil in a microwave oven?