Should I buy hard or soft bamboo

The choice of softness and hardness of mountain bamboo depends on maturity and consumption time. Those with slightly soft and elastic skin usually have higher maturity and better taste, while those that are hard and unripe need to be stored before consumption. The shell of mature mangosteen naturally softens and presents a deep purple color, with elasticity when lightly pressed and a bright green fruit stem. This type of mangosteen has plump and juicy flesh with a moderate sweet to sour ratio, rich in hydroxycitric acid and dietary fiber, which helps promote digestion and regulate blood lipids. If you plan to consume it on the same day after purchase, you can directly choose this type. If the shell is too soft or has brown spots, it may have deteriorated and should be avoided when purchasing. The hard shell of mangosteen is mostly immature and will gradually soften when stored at room temperature. This type of mountain bamboo is suitable for storage and can be stored for a long time in a cool and ventilated place. Immature mangosteen contains a high amount of tannic acid, which may cause oral discomfort when consumed directly. It is recommended to store it together with ethylene releasing fruits such as bananas to accelerate ripening. If there is no elasticity at all when pressed and the weight is too light, it may have dried up or rotted inside.

When selecting, it can be judged based on the odor. Fresh mangosteen has a sweet and fruity aroma, and if it has a fermented taste, it is already overripe. When storing, it is recommended to wrap it in a tissue and refrigerate it to avoid moisture and mold growth. The daily consumption should be controlled at 3-4, and diabetes patients should pay attention to their sugar content. The purple pigment in the fruit shell may stain, and it is recommended to wear gloves or clean it in a timely manner when handling.