Washing fruit as soon as you get home may seem like a good practice, but it’s not always the best decision. Experts warn that some fruits should be stored unwashed, because extra humidity can accelerate the appearance of mold and reduce their duration in the refrigerator.
According to , the recommendation applies mainly to more delicate, porous fruits or those with natural layers of protection. In these cases, the ideal is to keep the food dry and just rinse it with cold water right before consuming it.
According to experts cited by EatingWell, fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, apples, peaches, nectarines, grapes and cherries can spoil more quickly when they are washed before being stored.
Red fruits absorb water
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are porous fruits, meaning they absorb water easily. When they are washed before going into the refrigerator, they have more moisture on the surface and inside.
This moisture creates a favorable environment for mold growth and can cause it to mature faster. Even a quick wash can reduce the shelf life of these fruits by several days.
The ideal is to store them dry, in a ventilated container, on paper towels and, if possible, in a single layer. Washing should only be done when eating.
Apples should also be dry
Despite being more resistant, apples should also not be washed before storing. The reason lies in the natural waxy layer that helps protect the fruit.
This cuticle helps retain moisture and keep the apple crisp for longer. When removed by early washing, the fruit may be more vulnerable to drying out and spoilage.
Apples should be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on the desired duration. It is also advisable to keep them away from other fruits because they release ethylene, a gas that accelerates ripening.
Peaches and nectarines are delicate
Peaches and nectarines have thin, soft skin, which makes them more sensitive to moisture. When they are washed before storing, water can penetrate the shell and accelerate the appearance of mold.
These fruits must be handled with care, especially if they are already ripe. Small marks or stepped on areas can become points of faster deterioration.
The best option is to keep them dry until consumption. When it’s time to eat them, they should be washed under cold running water and consumed soon after.
Grapes have natural protection
Grapes often have a whitish layer on the skin, which some people mistake for dust or dirt. In fact, it is prune, a natural protection of the fruit.
This layer helps protect the grapes from insects and spoilage. Washing grapes before storing them can remove this protection and increase humidity in the bunch.
Therefore, you should resist the temptation to wash the grapes immediately after purchase. It is best to keep them dry and only wash them in the amount you are going to consume.
Cherries must keep the stem
Cherries should also not be washed before storing. Moisture in the bark can accelerate deterioration and encourage mold.
Another important precaution is not to remove the stems prematurely. The stem helps protect the fruit and maintain freshness for longer.
As with berries, cherries should only be washed before eating. Once wet, the ideal is to consume them quickly.
How to wash fruit correctly
Fruit with edible skin must be washed before consumption, but does not need soap, detergent, vinegar or other chemicals. The recommendation is to only use cold running water.
When washing, you must carefully remove visible dirt or residue without damaging the shell. Afterwards, you can dry the fruit with clean paper towels or a suitable cloth.
Experts remember that bacteria can contaminate products grown in different ways, so washing before consuming is still important. The difference is in the right moment: not when you get home, but before you eat.
Simple rule to preserve better
The rule of thumb is to store the fruit dry and only wash it before consumption. This tip is especially important for berries, grapes, cherries, peaches, nectarines and apples.
By avoiding unnecessary moisture, you can prolong freshness, reduce waste and save money. Often, the habit that seems more hygienic ends up making the fruit spoil faster.
Therefore, before washing everything when you get home from shopping, it is worth separating what should remain dry. The fruit still needs to be washed, but only at the right time.
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