Consumer Reports recently stated that refrigerator manufacturers, including GE, LG and Whirlpool, are adding new technological features that will help keep your food fresh longer. If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, this may be something worth considering before you buy. Here are some highlights of the new features being added:
Whirlpool’s Freshflow Produce Preserver
This technology will be in select models, starting this year, and consists of ethylene absorption packets located in crisper drawers. These packets contain potassium permanganate, which neutralizes ethylene – a naturally occurring, odorless, harmless, tasteless gas, given off by fruits and veggies, causing them to ripen more quickly. Whirlpool claims that FreshFlow will make your produce last 25 percent longer, but the packets must be changed every six months.
GE ClimateKeeper Dual Evaporator System
As the old saying goes, “two heads are better than one.” The same goes for evaporators in your refrigerator. Older fridge models have one evaporator in the freezer, so that all of the cold air for the fresh food section in the refrigerator comes from the freezer. This causes the airflow from the fresh food section to mix with the air in the freezer. If you notice that your ice cubes taste like onion or broccoli, this may very well be why. (That, or you need to change your fridge filter.) With a dual evaporator system like GE’s ClimateKeeper, there are two evaporators, rather than one, so that the fresh food section and the freezer cool independently from one another. The humidity inside your fresh food drawers is also significantly higher, allowing fresh produce and unsealed foods to retain moisture and stay fresh longer.
Bosch VitaFresh Technology
With Bosch’s VitaFresh system, a high-tech lining inside your fresh food drawers works with climate sensors to maintain ideal temperature, humidity and air circulation, so that your food stays fresher longer. Bosch also claims that this technology also preserves vitamins and nutrients.
Viking’s Plasmacluster Ion Air Purifier
Similar to room air purifiers for the home, a Plasmacluster Ion air purifier inside your refrigerator helps eliminate odors associated with airborne pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, mold and fungi, helping your food to stay fresher, longer.
LG Push ‘N Seal Crisper Drawer
This drawer uses a vacuum to seal your produce inside, apparently keeping it crisp and fresh for longer.
Despite freshness claims from various refrigerator manufacturers, Consumer Reports recommends that you first look for a fridge that has excellent temperature performance. You can keep your produce fresh through proper food storage, eliminating the need for advanced refrigeration technology. And, of course, remember to replace your refrigerator water filter every six months.
