Keep apples crisp and “fresh for months” with an easy hack from a food preservation expert

According to NRC Business Waste’s Paul Jackson, apples are often crisp and juicy the first time, but can be difficult to store.

A food storage expert has revealed how apples can be kept ‘fresh for months’ without needing to be refrigerated, pressed or dried.

According to an expert, the “key” to keeping their “crunchiness” is choosing the perfect apple.

Paul explained: “The apple must be perfect, meaning no bruises, cuts or insect damage. In addition, the stem must remain intact, as a broken or missing stem can lead to faster spoilage.

“Freshly picked apples from the orchard are ideal because store-bought apples may have been sprayed with chemicals that can affect the ripening process.”

To keep fruits in excellent condition, pack them in dry, aerated material that includes sawdust, grains, heat-dried sand, or even newspaper.

These materials are said to absorb excess moisture that can lead to rotting, while also providing a breathable environment for the apples.

The expert said: “Store packed apples in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or basement. It’s important to keep them away from potatoes, as potatoes produce a gas called ethylene, which speeds up the ripening process of apples, causing them to spoil more quickly.

“A cool environment slows down the natural ripening and aging processes of apples and extends their shelf life.”

To further protect them from spoilage, wrap them individually in newspaper so that one bad apple doesn’t affect the others.

According to the professional, isolating each apple ensures that others remain intact, which can significantly increase their freshness.

Paul continued: “Remember that this storage method works best with freshly picked apples, not those that have been stored for a while.

“Store-bought apples may already have been treated with chemicals or exposed to conditions that affect their ripening, so using fresh apples from an orchard or farmer’s market gives the best results.”

Similarly, potatoes can also be stored for months if they are stored in similar conditions, in a cool and dry place.

Store them in a mesh bag or wicker basket or paper bag. Make sure you avoid airtight containers at all costs.

Exposure to light or moisture can cause rotting of the skin and sprouting and green patches.

Do not eat green potatoes as they can be harmful if eaten in large quantities.