Apples, those crisp and juicy treats, can be a bit finicky when it comes to storage. But fear not, food storage expert Paul Jackson from NRC Business Waste has some secrets to keeping those apples fresh for months, without resorting to refrigeration, canning, or dehydration.
The key to maintaining their delightful crunch, according to Paul, lies in choosing the perfect apple. It needs to be blemish-free, with no bruises, cuts, or insect damage. And the stem? That needs to be intact, as a broken or missing stem can accelerate spoilage. Freshly picked apples from an orchard are ideal, as store-bought apples may have been treated with chemicals that can interfere with their natural ripening process.
Once you have your perfect apples, it’s time to create a cozy storage environment. Pack them in a dry, aerated material like sawdust, grains, heat-dried sand, or even newspaper. These materials absorb excess moisture, which can lead to rot, while also providing a breathable space for the apples.
Now, find a cool, dry place like a pantry or cellar to store your packed apples. And a word of caution: keep them far away from potatoes! Potatoes release a gas called ethylene, which speeds up the ripening process in apples, making them spoil faster.
To further protect your apples, wrap each one individually in newspaper. This isolation prevents a single bad apple from affecting the others, significantly extending their freshness. Remember, this storage method works best with freshly picked apples, as store-bought apples might have already been exposed to conditions that impact their ripening.
While we’re on the topic of storage, let’s talk about potatoes. Like apples, they can be kept for months in a cool, dry location. Choose a netted bag, wicker basket, or paper bag for storage, avoiding airtight containers at all costs. Light and moisture can lead to rotting, sprouting, and green patches. And a crucial note: never eat potatoes that have turned green, as they can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste of fresh apples and potatoes for months to come.
