Apples are a popular fruit known for their crisp texture and delicious flavor. They’re not only tasty but also packed with nutrients and can be stored for an extended period if properly preserved. Storing apples in the right conditions can help maintain their taste, texture, and nutritional value. Here are 13 steps to help you store apples effectively.

1. Choose fresh apples: When shopping for apples, choose fresh ones with no soft spots, bruises, or visible signs of damage. The fresher the apple, the better it will store.

2. Sort your apples: Separate the apples by size and variety. Larger apples tend to ripen faster, while smaller ones take longer.

3. Remove damaged or overripe apples: Discard any apples with signs of damage, as they may spoil faster and affect nearby healthy apples.

4. Keep the stems intact: Leaving the stems on the apple helps slow down the ripening process by preventing ethylene gas release, which accelerates fruit decay.

5. Consider individual wrapping: Wrapping each apple in newspaper or plastic wrap can minimize contact between the fruits and prevent bruising or spread of ethylene gas.

6. Use proper storage containers: Apples should be stored in perforated plastic bags or containers with small air holes to allow for ventilation and prevent moisture build-up.

7. Maintain humidity levels: Apples need a certain level of humidity (90-95%) to stay fresh for a longer period. You can achieve this in a refrigerator’s crisper drawer or by placing a damp towel in the storage container.

8. Refrigerate your apples: Fruit drawers or crisper compartments in fridges are ideal for storing apples as they maintain an appropriate temperature (30-35°F) and humidity level.

9. Store away from strong odors: Apples can absorb strong smells from nearby food items so keep them separate from foods like onions and garlic.

10. Keep apples separate from other fruits: Some fruits, like bananas, release ethylene gas that can speed up the ripening process in apples. Store apples away from these fruits to avoid premature ripening.

11. Rotate your apple supply: Use the older apples first and restock with fresh ones to ensure an ongoing supply of fresh apples.

12. Check on your apples regularly: Inspect stored apples every week or two to remove any that show signs of spoilage and ensure proper storage conditions are maintained.

13. Freeze for long-term storage: If you have extra apples, you can slice and freeze them for long-term storage. Lay apple slices on a tray, freeze them individually, and then store them in heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers.

This way, you can enjoy fresh apple taste throughout the year.
By following these 13 steps, you can effectively store apples and enjoy their freshness, flavor, and nutritional benefits for an extended period.