Introduction:
When it comes to the autumn season, there are a few things that provide a quintessential experience of the season, and one of those is apples. There are a variety of apples out there, each with its unique characteristics, ranging from sweet to tangy, each of their own beautiful colors, and each perfect for a different use or recipe. However, buying certain varieties of apples in bulk, or when they’re on sale, may lead to more than you need. So, what happens to the excess apples that you didn’t use? Do you know the right way to store apples to ensure their taste, freshness, and nutritional values? In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to store apples.
Detailed Discussion on Store Apples:
When it comes to storing apples, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure their longevity and flavor. Failure to store them correctly will result in texture changes, taste loss or deterioration, and overall apple spoilage. The following tips will ensure that your apples stay fresher for longer:
Avoid Scratches and Bruising:
When it comes to storing apples, it’s important to remember that they are prone to bruising. Apples placed in bags are likely to rub against each other, causing abrasions that will reduce their shelf life. Therefore, it is best to wrap each apple separately in tissue paper or newspaper before storing it. This will prevent them from rubbing on each other and will also protect them from getting scratched or bruised.
Keep Apples in a Cool Place:
It is crucial to keep apples in a cool and dry place. Storing apples in a place that is too warm will ripen them too quickly, making them rot in no time. To avoid this, store apples in an environment that is 30 to 35°F (0 to 2°C) with a relative humidity of 90%. This keeps them in a state of suspended animation that significantly reduces the chances of spoilage and deterioration, thereby extending their shelf life.
Store Apples Separately:
Apples continuously release ethylene gas, which can cause other fruits to spoil quickly if stored with apples. To avoid this, store apples separately from other fruits and vegetables. You can also store apples with other ethylene-producing fruits such as bananas if you need them to ripen more quickly. On the other hand, if you are looking to slow down the ripening process of your apples, store them with other fruits and vegetables that do not produce ethylene gas.
Use the Right Storage Container:
Apples should be stored in a container that allows air to circulate easily and prevents moisture from building up. Do not use airtight containers since they will trap moisture, causing the apples to rot. It is best to store apples in a basket or shallow box lined with a clean, dry material such as kitchen towel or newspaper.
Check Them Regularly:
Regularly check the apples you’ve stored to ensure they are in good condition and that no rot or spoilage has occurred. In case you find any damaged or rotting apples, remove them promptly to avoid affecting the others.
Concluding Thoughts on Store Apples:
Knowing how to store apples correctly can be a game-changer, especially if you have to buy them in bulk or are planning to use them over an extended period. Apple longevity depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, ventilation, and surroundings. Therefore, it is crucial to store each apple separately and keep them in a cool, controlled environment to maintain their optimum freshness and flavor.
FAQs About Store Apples:
1. Can you store apples together with other fruits and vegetables?
As mentioned earlier, apples continuously release ethylene gas, and storing them with other fruits and vegetables can cause spoilage. Store them separately or together with ethylene-producing fruits like bananas that require rapid ripening.
2. How long can stored apples last?
If stored under ideal conditions, apples should last for up to six months.
3. Can you freeze apples?
Yes, you can freeze apples, but it is recommended to use them for cooking or baking purposes only. Store them in a ziplock bag or airtight container for up to six months.
4. What are the best apples for storing?
Harder varieties of apples like Gala, Granny Smith, Red Delicious, and Honey Crisp store better than softer apples like McIntosh.
In conclusion, properly storing apples is simple yet crucial for their longevity and quality. Observe the necessary precautions such as avoiding bruising and scratches, proper ventilation, and keeping them separate from other fruits and vegetables. Follow these tips and extend the shelf life of your delicious and nutritious apple.
