We’ve all been there – staring at a basket of apples, some sporting unsightly bruises and cuts, wondering if they’re destined for the compost bin. But fear not, those imperfect apples can still be savored! The key lies in how you store them.
According to Paul Jackson, a spokesperson for NRC Business Waste, a UK-based waste management and recycling firm, a simple storage trick can drastically extend the life of your less-than-perfect apples, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious for longer.
Jackson suggests a little-known hack involving dry, aerated materials: “To keep your apples in prime condition, pack them in sawdust, grains, heat-dried sand, or even newspaper,” he advises. These materials act like little sponges, absorbing excess moisture, which prevents rot while simultaneously creating a breathable environment for the fruit to thrive.
For an extra layer of protection, Jackson recommends wrapping each apple individually in newspaper. This clever trick serves a dual purpose: it isolates each apple, preventing a single bad apple from spoiling the entire bunch, and it helps contain ethylene gas, a natural substance released by apples as they ripen. By isolating the bad apples, the rest can stay fresh for longer.
When it comes to the ideal storage location, Jackson advises against refrigeration. “A cool, dry location like a pantry or cellar is ideal, but keep them away from potatoes,” he warns. “Potatoes produce ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process of apples,” he explains.
Jackson also emphasizes the importance of selecting good apples to begin with. Before you purchase, take a close look at each apple. Watch out for bruises, cuts, and any signs of insect damage. A missing or broken stem is another indicator that the apple may spoil more quickly.
According to Jackson, freshly picked apples, especially those straight from an orchard, have a longer shelf life compared to store-bought varieties. “Store-bought apples are often sprayed with chemicals to delay ripening, while apples from an orchard are free from these treatments,” he explains.
So, next time you have a basket of apples, don’t be quick to discard those bruised beauties. Implement these expert storage tips and enjoy fresh, delicious apples for longer!