Food & Receipts

The 3 Types of Grapes Sellers Won’t Touch

Sure, I can assist you with that. --- There's an abundance of grapes on offer, but it takes a discerning eye to ensure you're not buying a bunch that could be detrimental to your health.

Administrator

18 September, 2024

1. Grapes Without a “Frost” Appearance

When purchasing grapes, you may come across some clusters that have a very thin, white “frost-like” coating on their surface, resembling powder. Many people mistakenly assume that this white coating is dirt. In reality, this frost or powder forms when the grapes are exposed to sunlight as they ripen.

This frost-like coating contains certain nutrients and is actually a sign of higher quality than grapes with a shiny, frost-free surface.

Grapes with shiny surfaces often fall into two categories: they may have been treated with growth enhancers to speed up the ripening process, or they could have been harvested and transported a long time ago, causing the natural frost to dissipate. You can further examine the stems; if they appear dry and withered, it’s another indication that the grapes are not fresh.

2. Oversized Grapes

When buying grapes, it’s important to consider the size of the individual grapes. Naturally grown grapes tend to have a moderate size, and their clusters are generally uniform in appearance.

If you come across unusually large grapes, they might have been injected with artificial bulking agents, which are not beneficial for your health. Therefore, unless it’s a variety known for its larger size, it’s best to avoid clusters with abnormally large grapes. Opt for those with medium-sized, plump berries that are consistent in size and not shriveled.

3. Cracked Grapes

It’s not uncommon to see cracked grapes while shopping. However, this is not due to rough handling or over-ripeness. In most cases, cracks are a telltale sign of the use of growth enhancers during the grapevine’s growth period. The rapid expansion of the fruit’s interior caused by these chemicals outpaces the growth of the skin, resulting in cracks.

Consuming grapes with cracks can be detrimental to your health. Similarly, avoid grapes that have naturally cracked due to over-ripeness, as the cracks can harbor insect eggs, bacteria, and dirt, posing potential health risks.

Additionally, pay attention to the color of the grapes. As most grapes grow under the shade of leaves, they don’t receive uniform sunlight, resulting in variations in color within the same cluster. If you come across a cluster with overly uniform, shiny, and vibrant colors, it’s best to steer clear.

Frequently asked questions

The three types of grapes that sellers typically steer clear of are the Cotton Candy, Concord, and Ruby Roman varieties.

The Cotton Candy grape variety tends to bruise very easily, which makes it less appealing to consumers. As such, sellers often avoid stocking this type of grape to prevent potential losses.

Concord grapes have a very distinct, strong flavor and are often used in juices and jellies. They are also known for their thick skin and seeds, which some consumers may find unappealing.

Ruby Roman grapes are considered a luxury fruit and are extremely expensive due to their large size, high quality, and strict growing requirements. They are carefully cultivated and must meet specific standards to be sold, which contributes to their high price tag.