Apple Handling and Storage Tips

Apple selection and storage tips:

• Select apples that are firm, wrinkle-free and relatively bruise-free.
• Handle apples gently to prevent bruising.
• Refrigerate them! Refrigerated apples last 10 times longer than apples stored at room temperature. Cool air helps maintain apples’ quality, juiciness and crispness. Store apples in the fridge in a ventilated plastic bag.
• Apples may absorb odors, so store them away from foods with strong odors (e.g., onions, some cheeses).
• Apples can speed ripening of some vegetables and fruits, so don’t store them with cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, etc.) – or leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.) – or bananas, kiwis, peaches, plums and pears.
• Prevent the natural browning that occurs when apples are cut by bathing the cut fruit in a mild solution of water and lemon juice – or simply sprinkle cut fruit with fresh lemon juice.

Preparation tips:

Apple cider and apple juice can be used interchangeably in any recipe.