Imported apples can be stored for extended periods without spoiling, which has raised concerns among consumers about their quality. However, there are some facts about apple preservation that not all consumers are aware of.
Why Can Imported Apples Stay Fresh for Months Without Spoiling?
If you’re a frequent fruit buyer, you may have noticed that apples tend to last much longer than other fruits, especially imported ones. This has led to concerns among consumers about the possible presence of harmful preservatives.
Addressing this issue, Dr. Vu Thi Tan, a lecturer at Hanoi University of Science and Technology, provided the following explanation to VTC News: While it’s true that pesticides and preservatives may remain on fruits if not used properly, it cannot be concluded that long-lasting apples are treated with harmful chemicals. Apples inherently have a very long natural shelf life, especially when stored at lower temperatures.
According to Dr. Tan, apples have a naturally thick peel with a low water content. The enzymes in apples also work much slower than in other fruits, which slows down the decomposition process. Thanks to these natural characteristics, apples can be kept at room temperature for extended periods without spoiling, outlasting other fruits such as mangoes, lychees, or bananas.
In addition to their natural ability to self-preserve, modern post-harvest preservation technologies are also applied to extend the shelf life of apples without compromising consumers’ health. One of the most common methods is wax coating, where a thin layer of wax, often derived from natural sources like carnauba or shellac, is applied to the apple’s surface. This reduces water evaporation, maintaining the apple’s moisture and delaying oxidation, thus prolonging its freshness. This edible wax coating is safe for consumption and does not pose any health risks.
When gently scraping the surface of an imported apple, you may notice a thin, white film, which is the protective wax coating. Some consumers mistake this as a foreign or harmful substance, but it is entirely safe.
In addition to wax coating, apples are often stored in cold storage facilities that employ controlled atmosphere (CA) technology. CA technology slows down the respiratory rate of fruits while inhibiting the growth of mold and bacteria, further extending the shelf life of apples without the need for chemical preservatives.
By combining these preservation methods, apples can remain fresh and safe for consumption over extended periods without relying on harmful chemicals.
Precautions When Choosing Imported Apples
While modern preservation technologies ensure the longevity of apples without chemicals, consumers should still exercise caution when selecting apples. It is advisable to purchase apples with clear origin and prefer those imported through proper channels, distributed by reputable systems.
Unregulated products on the market, lacking labels, production information, or traceability codes, may pose potential health risks. While the wax coating on apples is edible, it is recommended to wash the apples thoroughly before consumption, especially if you intend to eat the peel.
To ensure proper hygiene, you can soak the apples in a dilute solution of salt water, baking soda, or warm water to remove any dirt or impurities from the surface.
“How to Tell the Difference Between Chinese and Imported Apples”
Apples are a nutritious fruit, offering a plethora of health benefits. However, many consumers are wary of purchasing apples due to the difficulty in distinguishing between imported apples and those originating from China. We are here to help you identify the differences and make informed choices.
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