SAEDNEWS: If you want to keep apples fresh and healthy at home for a long time, you should first know the proper place to store them.
According to SAEDNEWS, Apples stay in good condition in the refrigerator. However, there are other tips that help maintain their freshness and shelf life in the fridge. One of the best ways to keep apples fresh for a long time is to place them in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer.
However, you should pay attention not to store them next to other fruits. Keep them separate from other produce because if apples are placed alongside other fruits and vegetables, they can cause those items to ripen much faster.
Another important point in storing apples is to maintain humidity in the environment where they are kept. Many fruit shops spray water on apples to keep them moist and fresh.
One home method for keeping apples moist at home is to wrap them in damp paper towels and then place them in the refrigerator.
Choose smaller apples so they stay fresh for a longer period. Some apples may have spots, dents, or worm damage; if the damage is severe, they should be discarded, but if they are still usable, it is better to keep them separate from the rest so you can use them before they spoil.
Apples continue to ripen even after being picked, especially when stored at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, be careful when buying and avoid overly ripe ones. They should be slightly firm with no visible blemishes. In general, storing apples in a cool environment helps keep them fresh.
Keeping the environment cool
The ideal temperature for storing apples is between 30 and 35°F, and the required humidity is between 90% and 95%. If you don’t have a large number of apples, you can easily store them in the refrigerator, but it is better to place them in a plastic bag to maintain sufficient humidity.
How to Prevent Apples from Turning Brown?
As you know, if you slice an apple and leave it outside the refrigerator, it will turn brown and become less appetizing—even children may refuse to eat it. This browning happens due to a chemical reaction.
The enzymes on the surface of the cut apple react with oxygen when exposed to air, causing oxidation. You can keep apple slices fresh and prevent browning by following the methods below:
Using salt water
Mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt with 2 cups of water. Then soak the apple slices in the salt water for a few minutes. Before storing or eating, rinse them. This method can help keep sliced apples from turning brown for up to a week.
Using lemon juice
Place the sliced apples in lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown. This method can also improve their taste, as the lemon flavor will be absorbed into the apple.
This is why these apples can be used in cookies and various recipes—you will notice that lemon adds a unique flavor to the whole cake. However, soaking sliced apples in lemon juice only prevents browning for a few hours.
Using lemon soda (lemon-flavored soda)
You can also use lemon-flavored soda instead of fresh lemon. It makes the apples taste much more delicious. Simply soak the sliced apples in lemon soda for about 10 minutes, then drain them before use; the flavor becomes almost neutral.
With this method, there is no need for any additional steps, and the apples will not turn brown for up to two days.
Frequently Asked Questions about Storing Apples
How long do apples last in the refrigerator?
When apples are properly stored in the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for up to 6 to 8 weeks.
Do apples last longer in the cabinet or in the refrigerator?
If you keep apples in the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for several weeks, which is why the fridge is the best place to extend their shelf life.
Do apples cause other fruits and vegetables to spoil faster?
Some apples release ethylene gas as they ripen, which can cause other produce to spoil faster. Therefore, it is best to store apples away from other fruits and vegetables.
