How do you store apples to prolong their shelf life?
Apple is a popular fruit consumed worldwide due to its juicy, crunchy, and nutritious attributes, making it an excellent snack at any time of the day. However, apples have a short shelf life that begins with their harvest, and the fruit starts to deteriorate. Therefore, proper storage is paramount to extend the life of apples, ensuring they remain fresh and crisp for as long as possible. This article examines various ways of storing apples and provides tips and tricks to get the most out of the fruits.
1. Pick the right apples
Choosing the right apples is the first step to proper storage. All apples are not created equal as some varieties are more prone to bruising and decay than others. Therefore, pick firm, unblemished apples with good stem integrity for the best results.
2. Check for any bruises or rotten spots
It’s essential to inspect each apple for any bruises or rotten spots. Damaged apples will spoil faster, leading to other apples in the batch deteriorating quickly. Remove the bruised or rotten apples and use them first before others.
3. Store in a cool, dry place
The temperature is a crucial aspect of apple storage. They should always be stored in a cool and dry place. The ideal temperature range for apple storage is between 30-35 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 2 degrees Celsius). Apples ripen too quickly and spoil faster when exposed to high temperatures. Apples also freeze and become mealy when stored in extremely cold temperatures.
4. Use a refrigerator
Refrigeration is an excellent way to prolong the life of apples. Store the apples in a plastic bag with a few air holes to enable proper ventilation. Place the bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer, away from other fruits and vegetables.
5. Freeze the apples
Freezing is another effective way to preserve apples for long periods. Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges, place them in a freezer bag and store in the freezer. Frozen apples are useful in pies, cakes, and other baked goods.
6. Wrap them in paper
For small batches of apples, wrapping them in paper is an excellent way to store them. Wrap each apple separately in paper, ensuring to cover the stem and the base. Place the wrapped apples in a crate or box and store in a cool, dry place.
7. Store apples in a ventilated container
If you have a lot of apples to store, consider using a ventilated container. These containers provide proper air circulation, preventing moisture buildup and mold growth. Place the apples in the container and store in a cool, dry place.
8. Avoid storing apples near ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables
Ethylene is a gas naturally produced by some fruits and vegetables, including bananas, avocados, and tomatoes. Ethylene speeds up the ripening of fruits and vegetables, including apples. To avoid premature ripening and spoilage, store apples away from ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables.
9. Use apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent that cleans and sanitizes apples, prolonging their shelf life. Mix one-part apple cider vinegar with three parts of water, soak the apples in the solution for five to ten minutes, rinse thoroughly with water, and dry.
10. Consider using a commercial produce saver
Several commercial produce savers are designed to prolong the life of fruits and vegetables, including apples. These products absorb moisture and slow down the decay process, with many containing natural antibacterial agents. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper storage is vital to prolonging the life of apples. Following the tips and tricks outlined in this article from picking the right apples to checking for bruises, refrigerating, wrapping in paper, and using apple cider vinegar, you can enjoy your apples for several weeks or even months. Store them in a cool, dry place and avoid storing them near ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables. By taking these steps, you can keep your apples fresh, crisp, and delicious.