Table of contents

Introduction

No one likes to waste food, especially when it comes to fresh fruit and vegetables. But what if there was a way to make them last longer? The answer is with UVC light.

UVC light has been used for decades in the food industry as an effective tool to protect against microbial contamination of perishable items. By using UVC light, you can significantly extend the shelf life of your produce, so you don't have to worry about it spoiling before you get a chance to enjoy it.

How it works

UVC light works by disrupting the cell walls of bacteria and other microorganisms, effectively killing them. This prevents unwanted microbes from growing on your produce, helping to keep it fresher for longer. Unlike traditional chemical methods, UVC light does not leave any residue or affect the taste of your food in any way. UVC lights are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect one to fit your needs.

My UVC light at home

I was having a hard time keeping my fruits and vegetables from molding. I'd buy them fresh, only to find that by the end of the week, they were already starting to go bad. No matter how carefully I stored them, it seemed like nothing could prevent the mold from taking over.

That's when I decided to look into UVC light as an alternative solution. After doing some research, I discovered that UVC lamps are incredibly effective at killing bacteria and other microorganisms on contact. Since then, my fruits and veggies have been staying fresher for longer — no more moldy produce!

Is UVC safe for food?

Absolutely! UVC light is completely safe for use on food, as long as it is used correctly. It only affects the cells of undesirable microorganisms, leaving your produce intact and safe to eat. Even better, UVC lights are much more efficient than traditional chemical methods.

How to safely use UVC?

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UVC light can cause permanent damage to eyes, so it's important to use caution when handling and using it.

Using a UVC light doesn't have to be complicated. With the help of a scheduled timer, you can make sure that your UVC lamp only runs when people are asleep, eliminating any risk of eye damage. This will ensure you get the most out of your UVC light and keep your fruit and vegetables fresher for longer.

I run my UVC lamp according to this schedule:

TP Link Kasa Schedule tab
UVC Lamp schedule in Kasa TP Link App

Where and what to buy?

To keep your produce fresh you'll need a UVC light source that has a wavelength of 100-280nm, you'll also need a scheduled timer. I have the set below and it's been working great:

6W UVC lamp
6W UVC Lamp
Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2
Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2

I may earn a commission from purchases at no additional cost to you.

Summary

UVC light is a great way to make your fruit and vegetables last longer. It's safe, efficient, and easy to use. With the help of a timer, you can set up your UVC light to run while you're asleep and enjoy fresher produce for much longer than before.