Here, you’ll find the shelf life of common fruits and vegetables, storage tips and signs that your produce is at peak ripeness so you can smartly plan meals to eat your most fragile foods first. (Read: No more produce mistakes like finding slimy lettuce in the crisper drawer at the end of the week.) You’ll also find tips on how to properly store them, from general produce keepers to specialized storage solutions for fruits and vegetables.

No matter what—or when—you decide to cook, it’s best to err on the conservative side when judging whether food is safe. Trust your instincts. If something looks or smells off, your best bet is to toss (or compost).

Apples
How Long It Lasts

4-8 weeks in the fridge. Also, find out how long food is good in the fridge.
Tips for Fresh Produce

It’s OK if your apple has a few brown spots. Those can be cut away. But if it looks wrinkled or feels mushy, it’s time to toss.
Avocado
How Long It Lasts

4-7 days at room temperature
Tips for Fresh Produce

Peel off the stem. If the skin underneath is green, the avocado is ripe. It’ll also give in to light pressure when squeezed. To maximize freshness when storing a leftover avocado half, try an avocado keeper that’ll keep browning at bay.
Bananas
How Long It Lasts

2-5 days at room temperature
Tips for Fresh Produce