Becoming a Pro in the Produce Department

Becoming a Pro in the Produce Department

Have you ever wanted to be a Master of the Melons, a King or Queen of Cabbage or a Boss of Bananas? Do you want more confidence when choosing fruits and veggies at the grocery store or just want a conversation starter in the produce department? Here are some tips to improve your skills on your next visit to the grocery store.

Watermelons

Whether the watermelon you choose is oblong or round, first make sure it is symmetrical. Check the resting spot where it grew on the ground, making sure it is not too light, or it will be unripe. Avoid melons with damaged rinds. Finally, you can try the thumping test. When you tap on the watermelon it should sound firm but slightly hollow. If it sounds too hollow, it could be overripe.

Avocados

You don’t have to be a produce whisperer to find perfectly ripe avocados. Just start by purchasing them close to the time of use. Scan the bin and avoid the lightest and darkest ones. Bypass bruised ones. Hold the candidate in the palm of your hand and give it a slow but firm squeeze. Avoid pressing in with individual fingers. The avocado should have a slight give to it but not be squishy. Grab it, run home with it and prepare it before it changes its mind.

Bananas

In the case of bananas, you can usually judge a book by its cover. The peels tell you most of the story. Greener peels translate to a rawer fruit with less flavor. Darker skins will mean ripe or overripe fruit that is sweet. Most people prefer bananas with just a few brown spots, but the problem is not all bananas produce brown sprouts as they age. Avoid bananas with woody stalks and with skins that appear to be thick and tight.

Asparagus

If you have a fear of asparagus, here’s the cure. Pick bundles of the same length and thickness. Choose a bright to darker green color. Darker or purple spots on the tips are fine. Choose tips that have not bloomed or blossomed and are still relatively tight. Choose stalks that are firm, and you should be good to go.

Choosing fruits and vegetables doesn’t have to be difficult, nor does finding quality insurance coverage at a great price. In fact, we’ll do the shopping for you! Contact us for a no-obligation quote on life, auto, homeowners or business insurance. Our independent agents can shop our network of companies to find you the best value. Even getting started is easy. Just contact us today.


Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Buzz Your
Insurance Agent

Search for a local agent with our agent finder map.

Agent Finder

Want to learn more about our blog writer?

Read more about KayLynn's background.

Click Here

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Read More Blogs

Your Safety Net Has a Safety Net: Understanding the Life Insurance “Free Look” Period

Discover your life insurance policy’s “free look” period.

From Edsel to Yugo: Three Automotive Flops That Made History

The biggest blunders in automotive history.

Stay or Go? Why Improving Your Current Home Might Be Your Best Move Yet

Love your home, don’t leave it! Discover why improving beats moving.

The Unforgettable Eight: Women Who Captured Our Hearts

Meet the eight women who are loved by all.

Elevate Your Enterprise: 11 Smart Ways to Boost Business Professionalism

Boost your business’s professionalism without breaking the bank.

Lightening the Load: A Guide to Decluttering for Your Loved Ones

Declutter for peace of mind, yours and theirs.

Smart Car Buying: Beyond the Sticker Price

Unlock the hidden costs of car ownership.

6 Simple Steps to Supercharge Your Home Security

Simple, affordable ways to protect your home.

Beyond Boredom: Unearthing the Surprising Stories Behind Our Favorite Board Games

Game night secrets revealed! Discover the surprising origins and quirky facts behind your beloved board games.

Avoiding the Pitfalls: Common Mistakes of At-Home Businesses

Launch your home business right! Learn to avoid the common errors that can derail your entrepreneurial dreams.