Everyone loves apples, but not when they turn brown and mushy. There’s a simple way to keep them fresher for longer – and it doesn’t cost a fortune
It’s a common instinct to pile apples in a fruit bowl along with other fruits. However, this can cause them to rot much quicker than you might expect. Just like bananas, apples produce ethylene gas, which is a natural plant hormone that causes them to ripen and age quicker, causing them to become brown.
But don’t worry, there’s a simple trick to keeping apples fresh for a longer period of time, which will save you from having to throw away those uneaten apples. By following a few simple steps, you can enjoy fresh apples for up to six weeks or even longer.
How to keep apples lasting for longer
According to MasterClass, apples can stay fresh for up to six weeks if stored properly in the crisper drawer of your fridge. To help preserve their freshness, wrap each apple in a damp paper towel or place them in a plastic bag with small holes.
It’s important to keep apples separate from other fruits, as the ethylene gas they release can accelerate the ripening process of nearby fruits and vegetables. By storing them away from other produce, you can ensure they stay fresh for as long as possible.
Alternatively, you can also prolong the shelf life for up to three to five days by squeezing lemon juice to prevent them from browning, especially when you’re preparing apples for snacking or cooking.
If you’ve still got too many apples and worry they might go bad, freezing them is a another option. Freezing apples allows you to keep them for up to six months, which is especially useful if you want to make sure none go to waste. To do so, start by cutting your apples into slices or chunks and squeezing lemon juice over them to prevent browning. Leave the apples to sit overnight, then transfer them into a freezer bag.
Keep in mind that frozen apples will lose their crispiness and texture over time. However, they are perfect for cooked recipes, such as apple pie, apple sauce, or apple butter, where the texture doesn’t need to be as firm. This makes freezing apples a great way to enjoy them in your favourite recipes without worrying about them going bad.
By following these simple tips, you can extend the shelf life of your apples and reduce food waste, all with just one common kitchen staple. Whether you store them in the fridge, use lemon juice, or freeze them, your apples will stay fresh for longer, saving both money and time.
