According to a study by the Garbage Project at the University of Arizona at Tucson, the average U.S. household throws out about $300 worth of spoiled fruits and vegetables every year, often because they rotted before reaching the table.

The good news: This is preventable. Properly storing produce can help it last longer while also preserving its taste and nutrients. Here's how to keep things fresh.

* Life spans are measured from the day you bring the produce home.