So you just did your grocery shopping a few days back and your bananas are already going bad? Maybe it’s the way you are storing them once you get home.

Here are five tips on how you can keep your produce and spices fresh.

• Refrigerate. If you have been to the store, you probably know by now that keeping produce refrigerated is the oldest trick in the book. Whether it’s fruits, nuts, or our favorite, matooke, store your produce in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for longer times. In the winter, consider a balcony, cold room, or garage.

• Shrink wrap the stems of your bananas. Did you know that bananas release ethylene gas that causes other fruits around them to ripen fast? Wrapping the stems of bananas can curb the release, ensuring your fruits last a longer time.

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• Ensure there are holes in the bags you store your produce to ensure the produce does not break down as fast.

• Keep spices and herbs away from direct sunlight. Store them in a cool dry place.

• Remember to always tightly replace the lids of your favorite spices, to lock in their flavor.

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How do you prepare your matooke? Here's a quick recipe for you! Here's a quick recipe for you!