How to store peeled apples that cannot be eaten

When the sliced apples cannot be eaten, it is recommended to store them in a sealed container and refrigerate them to delay oxidation and spoilage. Apple peels are prone to enzymatic browning when exposed to air, which is mainly related to factors such as polyphenol oxidase activity, oxygen contact, temperature and humidity.

1. Sealed refrigeration

Put the sliced apple slices into a fresh-keeping box or food grade sealed bag, and try to exhaust the air before refrigeration. Low temperature can inhibit polyphenol oxidase activity, and sealing can reduce oxygen contact. Apples can maintain their best taste for about 1-2 days in a refrigerated environment, but it is important to avoid mixing them with other strongly scented foods.

2. Isolate Oxygen

Apply a small amount of lemon juice or diluted salt water to the cut surface of apples, and use acidic substances to inhibit oxidase activity. Apples can also be soaked in cold boiled water and refrigerated to isolate the air through a water layer. This method is suitable for short-term storage, but soaking for more than 4 hours may result in nutrient loss.

3. Vacuum Processing

Using a household vacuum machine to remove air from the packaging can delay oxidation to the greatest extent possible. Vacuum packaged apples can be stored for about 3 days in refrigeration and can maintain their crispness well. It should be noted that the material of the vacuum bag should comply with food contact standards to avoid the risk of plasticizer migration.

4. Sugar Staining Treatment

Mix apple slices with a small amount of white sugar, which can form osmotic pressure and inhibit bacterial growth. Sugar stained apples can be stored in refrigeration for 2-3 days and are suitable for baking or dessert making. Patients with diabetes or people with sugar control should choose this method carefully.

5. Quick freezing storage

Cut the apple into pieces and lay them flat for 2 hours, then transfer them to a sealed bag for freezing, which can be stored for 1 month. Freezing can alter the structure of apple cells, causing them to soften after thawing, making them suitable for later use in cooking or juicing. It is recommended to directly cook and use during thawing to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. When storing peeled apples in daily life, it is recommended to choose glass or ceramic sealed containers and avoid using metal utensils to prevent accelerated oxidation. It is recommended to keep the core of the apple before refrigeration to reduce the exposed area of the cut surface. If the cut surface of an apple turns black or produces an unpleasant odor, it should be discarded immediately. For situations where it is necessary to carry it out, a portable freshness box can be prepared in advance and paired with an ice pack for insulation. Long term storage is recommended to be packaged into single serving quantities to avoid contamination caused by repeated use. Apples belong to high phenolic fruits, and oxidation discoloration does not affect safety but can reduce nutritional value. It is recommended to eat them freshly.