How to store sliced apples until the next day

Cut apples can be stored until the next day, but appropriate measures should be taken to prevent oxidation and spoilage. There are mainly methods such as refrigeration sealing, lemon water soaking, vacuum packaging, honey application, salt water soaking, etc.

1. Refrigerate and seal

Put the cut apples in a fresh-keeping box or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate them. Low temperature can delay oxidase activity. The fresh-keeping box should be made of materials with good sealing properties to avoid the infiltration of refrigerator odors. The recommended refrigeration temperature is around 4 degrees Celsius, and the storage time should not exceed 24 hours.

2. Lemon water soaking

Soak apple slices in diluted lemon juice for 3-5 minutes. Citric acid can inhibit polyphenol oxidase activity. The recommended ratio of lemon juice to water is 1:4. After soaking, drain the water and refrigerate. This method can maintain the color of apples for about 12 hours and is suitable for making fruit platters.

III. Vacuum Packaging

Use a household vacuum machine to remove the air inside the packaging bag and completely isolate it from oxygen contact. The vacuum state can keep apple slices fresh for more than 48 hours and preserve the crispy and tender taste to the greatest extent possible. Attention should be paid to using food grade materials for the vacuum bag, and ensuring that the surface of the apple is dry before vacuuming.

4. Honey application

Apply pure honey evenly on the cut surface of the apple to form a natural antioxidant barrier. The sugar in honey can reduce water activity and inhibit microbial growth. This method is suitable for ready to eat storage and can be maintained at room temperature for 4-6 hours without browning. Refrigeration has a better effect but may alter the original flavor of the apple.

5. Salt water immersion

Soak the slices in 1% diluted salt water for 2 minutes, and sodium ions can replace copper ions in the oxidase to inactivate it. After soaking in saltwater, rinse with cold water to avoid excessive saltiness affecting the taste. This method is easy to operate but has a short preservation effect. It is recommended to consume it within 8 hours.

When storing sliced apples, attention should be paid to the cleanliness and hygiene of the cutting tools and containers to avoid microbial contamination. Apples that have turned brown through oxidation can still be consumed, but their nutritional value will decrease. For situations that require long-term storage, it is recommended to dry or freeze apple slices. Suggested daily consumption: Cut and eat immediately. Whole apples can be stored for longer in a cool and ventilated place. Special groups such as diabetes patients need to control the use of honey, and those with renal insufficiency should reduce the use of saline immersion.