Storing your Microgreens

Microgreens are like any produce, always better as soon as it is harvested. This is one advantage of buying local microgreens vs in large stores. Local microgreens don’t travel as far, and they don’t sit in a warehouse or on a transport truck. They are harvested and available for your enjoyment in a matter of hours or days (depending on when you pick them up).

Now, there are better ways to store your microgreens to maximize their freshness, taste and appearance if you are not consuming them the same day you purchase them. We will review some of the best practices for storing and enjoying them over time.

Different microgreens have different shelf lives. Basically, the more delicate and smaller microgreens have a shorter shelf life. Makes sense. Delegate microgreens like mustard, broccoli, and arugula will last up to 10-14 days if stored correctly. Sturdier microgreens like peas and sunflowers can last 14-21 days, again, if stored correctly. However, why would you want to store them that long? Enjoy them.

However, if you are not going to eat them quickly, with proper storage, you can maximize the shelf life of even these small, delicate microgreens so you can enjoy them. Sealed containers work best and many swear that the glass container with a snap lid provides the best storage container. Excess moisture in the container will shorten the shelf life, so we recommend not washing them until you are going to use them and only washing what you plan to use in your dish or recipe. Also, placing a clean piece of paper towel in the bottom of your container will help absorb any excess moisture. If you still find excess moisture, you can put a piece of paper towel on top too. Be careful not to dehydrate them, resulting in wilted or limp microgreens. Don’t use a container or back with holes, as time in the refrigerator will draw moisture out if there are holes in the packaging (a natural process of the refrigerator, especially the current frost-free units).

Temperature is also a critical factor in maintaining your microgreens at peak freshness. The crisper tray in the fridge is likely best. Fridge temperatures can vary from shelf to shelf and even position on the shelf. For instance, items at the back of the fridge may actually freeze (which you definitely don’t want for your microgreens). The top shelves tend to be slightly warmer than the bottom shelf. So lower is better and not at the back of the fridge if there is no room in your crisper tray.

I hope these tips help extend the enjoyment of your microgreens. Remember, we offer CSA programs, preparing your microgreens for weekly or bi-weekly orders.