SAEDNEWS: Apples wrinkle when they lose moisture, but some varieties and storage conditions make this happen faster.
According to SAEDNEWS, a wrinkled apple has usually lost a significant amount of water through its skin. Although apples have a relatively low rate of moisture loss compared with many fruits, they continue to exchange water with the surrounding air after being harvested. When the environment is dry or the apple is stored for a long time, its cells gradually lose water, reducing the fruit’s firmness and creating a shriveled appearance.
Several factors can influence how quickly an apple loses moisture:
Apple variety: Different varieties have different skin characteristics, firmness, and natural storage abilities.
Storage temperature: Warmer conditions generally accelerate moisture loss and other processes associated with aging.
Humidity: Dry air encourages water to move from the fruit into the surrounding environment.
Storage time: Even under suitable conditions, apples gradually lose quality during prolonged storage.
Skin condition: Scratches, bruises, or damaged areas can make moisture loss and deterioration more likely.
An apple’s skin acts as a protective barrier that slows water loss. However, it is not completely waterproof. The structure of the skin, including its waxy outer layer, varies among apples and can affect how efficiently moisture is retained. Apples with characteristics that allow faster water loss may therefore become visibly wrinkled sooner than others stored under the same conditions.
Not necessarily. A slightly wrinkled apple may simply have lost moisture and become softer. If it still smells normal and has no signs of mold, extensive decay, or unusual discoloration, it may remain suitable for eating, although its texture may be less crisp. Apples that show clear spoilage should be discarded.
For better quality, apples can be stored in a cool environment with relatively high humidity. Keeping them away from very dry conditions can slow moisture loss and help preserve their firmness for longer.
