An apple a day keeps a doctor and many many other problems away !!
This saying about apples has been the longest going proverb, and for some sweet strange reason, every kid and grownup remembers this more than any other such saying they have learned while growing up.
With strong production regions in the country, Apple as a fruit is the mainstay of all households. Earlier apples used to be available across the key seasons, with modern day infrastructure, better-growing techniques, improved supply chain, we can relish apples all through the year.
One key challenge one continues to experience is the aberration in prices of off-season fruits. Given all of the stock available in stores comes from cold stores, there are lots that can have a bad lot, which eventually makes it to the market aisle.
On many occasions buyers, while they buy make a bad selection of the fruit, or do not have the know-how to assess the quality. While there is little one can do about it, here are the hacks that can help you buy better, and keep you safe from any untoward experience.
While we love our apples, one of the problems that every mother or one buying groceries faces is,
Buying Apples
When buying apples, it is essential to choose ripe and healthy apples to ensure that they are fresh and flavorful. Here are some tips on what to look for when buying apples:
Look for apples with a vibrant color: Apples come in different colors, but the best ones are those with bright and vibrant colors. The color of the apple should be uniform, and there should be no bruises, blemishes, or discolorations.
Check for firmness: Apples should be firm and not soft or mushy. To check for firmness, gently press your thumb on the apple. If it leaves a dent, the apple is overripe, and if it feels hard, it is not yet ripe.
Smell the apples: Ripe apples have a sweet, fresh smell, and unripe apples have a mild smell. If the apples have a musty or moldy smell, it is an indication that they are not fresh.
Buy from a trusted source: It is essential to buy apples from a trusted source to ensure that they are fresh and of good quality.
Storing Apples
Once you have bought your apples, you need to store them properly to keep them fresh for a more extended period. Here are some tips on how to store apples:
Store apples in a cool, dark place: Apples should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent them from ripening too quickly. A temperature range of 30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for storing apples.
Do not store apples with other fruits: Apples release ethylene gas, which can cause other fruits to ripen too quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to store apples separately from other fruits.
Store apples in a well-ventilated place: Apples need air circulation to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to spoilage. You can store your apples in a perforated plastic bag or a fruit basket to allow air to circulate.
Check your apples regularly: It is essential to check your apples regularly for any signs of spoilage. If you notice any soft spots or brown patches, it is an indication that the apple is starting to spoil.
Caring for Apples
To ensure that your apples remain fresh and flavorful, you need to care for them properly. Here are some tips on how to care for apples:
Wash your apples before eating: Before eating or cooking with apples, it is essential to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, wax, or pesticides.
Cut out any bruised or damaged areas: If you notice any bruised or damaged areas on your apples, you should cut them out to prevent the spoilage from spreading.
Use apples within a reasonable time frame: Apples have a shelf life of about two to three weeks, so it is essential to use them within a reasonable time frame to ensure that they remain fresh and flavorful.
Store sliced apples properly: If you have sliced apples, you can store them in a mixture of lemon juice and water to prevent them from browning.
