Rutagegas may be refrigerated, tightly wrapped, for up to two weeks.

Here are pointers on buying and storing winter produce from the University of Illinois Extension Service and from "The New Food Lover's Companion," by Sharon Tyler Herbst:

Brussels sproutsChoose small, compact and bright green sprouts no larger than 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Avoid yellowing sprouts and those with signs of insect damage. For better flavor, store sprouts for only a day or two in plastic bags in the vegetable bin of the refrigerator.

CabbageLook for tight, heavy heads, free of insects and decay. Cover loosely with a plastic bag or use perforated bags. Do not wash cabbage before storing; it will hasten deterioration. If you plan to eat the green cabbage raw, use within a few days. Cabbage that you plan to cook can be stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks. Savoy cabbage only will keep for about four days in the refrigerator.

CollardsChoose smooth, green, firm leaves; avoid leaves that are tough and woody. Wrap unwashed leaves in moist paper towels and place in a sealed plastic bag. They will stay fresh for four to five days in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator. When ready to use, wash thoroughly, using several changes of cold water. (The water used to cook collards is full of valuable nutrients. Save it to add to soups or soak it up with a piece of hot corn bread.)

ParsnipsThey're considered a winter vegetable because their flavor is not fully developed until the roots have been exposed to near-freezing temperatures for two to four weeks in the fall and early winter. Look for well-shaped roots; avoid limp, shriveled or spotted parsnips. Refrigerate in a plastic bag for up to two weeks.

SpinachChoose leaves that are crisp and dark green. Avoid limp, damaged leaves. Refrigerate in a plastic bag up to three days.

Turnips and rutabagasPurchase vegetables that are medium in size, 2 to 3 inches in diameter for turnips, 3 to 5 inches for rutabagas. Turnips and rutabagas may be refrigerated, tightly wrapped, for up to two weeks.

Winter radishesWhite, black or green varieties are available. Remove greens before refrigerating; greens will store for two to three days. Radishes wrapped in plastic bags may be refrigerated for up to two weeks.