How to Store Cabbage (Green Cabbage) for a Longer Time: Cold Storage Preservation Technology Explained

Cabbage—also known as green cabbage or white cabbage—is a widely consumed and nutrient-rich vegetable. Under normal room temperature conditions, fresh cabbage typically lasts only 7–10 days before losing moisture, turning yellow, and becoming unsuitable for sale or consumption.

For cabbage growers, wholesalers, and exporters, cold storage is the most effective way to extend shelf life, maintain freshness, and reduce post-harvest losses. With a properly designed vegetable cold storage system, cabbage can be stored for up to 60 days while preserving texture, moisture, and nutritional value.

Why Cold Storage Is Essential for Cabbage Preservation

Cabbage has a high water content and remains physiologically active after harvest. Without temperature and humidity control:

• Moisture loss leads to wilting
• High respiration accelerates aging
• Microbial activity causes decay

Vegetable cold storage slows respiration, stabilizes moisture levels, and significantly improves market flexibility—allowing off-season sales at higher prices.

Optimal Cold Storage Conditions for Cabbage

Maintaining stable environmental parameters is the key to long-term cabbage storage.

Temperature Control

• Recommended range: 0–1°C
• Temperatures below 0°C may cause chilling injury
• Temperatures above 2°C accelerate yellowing and decay

Humidity Control

• Ideal relative humidity: 85–90%
• Low humidity causes dehydration
• Excess humidity increases rot risk

Under these conditions, cabbage can remain fresh and marketable for up to 2 months.

Storage Capacity and Cold Room Design

In commercial vegetable cold storage:

• 1 ton of cabbage ≈ 3.5–4 m³ of cold storage volume

This means:

• A 500 m³ cabbage cold room can store approx. 125–140 tons
• A 1,000 m³ facility supports 250–280 tons

Construction Cost of a Cabbage Cold Storage Facility

The cost of building a cabbage cold storage depends on size, insulation thickness, and equipment selection.

Typical Investment Range

• Small cold storage (100–200 m²): USD 25,000 – 40,000
• Medium cold storage (500 m²): USD 50,000 – 70,000
• Large cold storage (1,000 m²): USD 100,000 – 130,000