Mushrooms will stay fresh without turning brown for 7 days using simple storage method

Mushrooms can be quite divisive due to their texture, but there is no denying that they are a great ingredient thanks to their versatility, rich umami flavour, and nutritional value. But anyone who cooks them regularly knows how quickly a fresh punnet can turn from plump and firm to slimy and discoloured. Their short shelf life can be an issue when planning your meals - especially if you're trying to reduce waste.

Due to their delicate nature and high water content, mushrooms require specific conditions to stay fresh. And according to mushroom expert Elliot Webb from Urban Farm-It, there's one overlooked mistake that's likely shortening their lifespan if stored in your fridge.

"Mushrooms are incredibly delicate due to their high water content, which makes proper storage essential to maintaining their freshness," he explained.

"One of the most common mistakes people make is leaving them in the plastic packaging they come in, as this traps moisture and accelerates spoilage."

Instead, he recommended "transferring them to a paper bag lined with kitchen towel," which "provides better airflow and absorbs excess moisture, significantly extending their shelf life."

Done right, this simple method can keep your mushrooms from browning or spoiling for a full week.

"Whole mushrooms stored this way in the fridge can last up to seven days, compared to sliced mushrooms which typically last only one to two days," he added.

Elliot also advised against washing mushrooms before storing them, as "keeping them whole and avoiding pre-washing them is key to ensuring they don't deteriorate too quickly."

But even if your mushrooms start to soften, they shouldn't be thrown away, as they're still perfect for cooked dishes like risottos, stir-fries, or soups.

For those who love mushrooms and want to guarantee maximum freshness, Elliott suggests going a step further and growing them at home.

"If you love mushrooms, investing in a mushroom growing kit is a fantastic way to enjoy them at their freshest," he said.

Unlike store-bought varieties, "homegrown mushrooms go straight from harvest to your plate, offering unmatched flavour and quality."