Tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens, adding freshness and flavour to everything from salads to sandwiches. Yet, one common frustration is their short shelf life. Often, tomatoes ripen quickly and then turn mushy or start to spoil within just a few days but there is one simple, inexpensive trick that can keep tomatoes fresh and juicy for several days without sacrificing taste or texture. It may sound unusual but Sellotape will help create a protective barrier that both locks in moisture and keeps bacteria out.
All you have to do is to place a small piece of Sellotape over the stem scar on an unwashed tomato, store it at room temperature, and remove the tape before use. This keeps tomatoes fresh and firm on your kitchen worktop for up to 10 days, according to Mary Hunt in the Huron Daily Tribune.

The spot where the tomato's stem was attached is essentially a tiny opening in the skin, which allows moisture to escape and bacteria or mould to enter.
This vulnerable area is usually the first place tomatoes start to spoil. By covering this spot securely with Sellotape, you create a seal that traps moisture inside the tomato, helping it stay juicy and crisp.
At the same time, the tape acts as a barrier against harmful microbes and mould spores, reducing the chance of premature rot.
This is important because bacteria and mould thrive in moist environments and can quickly cause a tomato to go bad.
The airtight seal created by the tape helps prevent this.
Unlike plastic bags or containers, Sellotape forms a precise seal exactly where it's needed without covering the entire tomato, which allows the tomato to breathe naturally while protecting its most delicate part.
Plus, it's easy to remove and leaves no residue, so you can simply peel it off before washing and eating.
The clever Sellotape trick has also gained popularity online. Jeff, from the TikTok account, jeffandlaurenshow, shared a quick video demonstrating the method. In just a few seconds, he wraps a small piece of tape over the tomato's stem scar.
The video caption reads: "Storing tomatoes with tape over the stem bump prevents moisture loss, keeping them fresh longer!"
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