How to Build a Cooler That Will Keep Fruits & Vegetables Fresh

Obtain a cardboard box to use as the base of the food cooler that is large enough to easily fit your amount of fruits and vegetables.

Cover the entire surface area of the cardboard box (both the inside and outside) with two full layers of packaging tape to give the box additional strength and durability.

Cut a 3-inch thick slab of insulation foam to equal the length and width of your box. Place the slab at the bottom of the box.

Cut four 1 1/2 inch slabs of insulation foam; measure each to equal the length and width of the inside walls of the box. Place the pieces inside the box so that it is fully insulated.

Place plastic freezer bags that have been filled with enough ice cubes to create a single layer at the bottom of the cooler on top of the foam.

Place your covered fruit and vegetable dishes inside the food cooler, directly on top of the ice.

Cut a final piece of foam to fit in between the sides of the cooler and place on top of the trash bag.

Close the box and secure loosely with a few pieces of painter's tape. Keep closed until ready to open the cooler and consume the fruits and vegetables.