When we walk into a supermarket, we are often greeted by a colorful display of fresh fruits and vegetables. Have you all experienced this? But among them, apples stand out as a staple, agree? 

Among the most common fruits, apples are one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits all over the world. Approximately 76 million tons are produced globally every year and are mainly grown in China, the U.S., Europe, and Turkey. Also, they are widely available in supermarkets all year round. They are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients and health benefits.

But have you ever thought about how long apples can last in the supermarket? In this blog post, we will delve into the age of supermarket apples.

Shall we start?

Facts about Apples That Might Surprise You

• Generally, apple trees take nearly 4-5 years to produce their first fruit, and standard-size apple trees start bearing fruit 8-10 years after it is harvested.
• More than 2,500 varieties of apples are grown in the United States, and types include red, green, and yellow.
• The largest apple ever picked weighed in at 3 pounds 2 ounces.
• Apples have no cholesterol and contain 0 grams of fat or sodium.
• Apple trees can live up to 100 years

How To Find the Age of Apples in Supermarkets?

To determine the age of supermarket apples, you can look for clues based on various factors such as apple type, harvesting season, and the storage method carried out by the supermarket. Let’s get started, 

Harvesting Season

Depending on the varieties, apples will be harvested in the late summer or early fall. After being harvested, they undergo a process called “controlled atmosphere storage”. This storage method involves regulating the temperature, humidity, and gas levels to extend the shelf life of the apples. By doing this process, supermarkets can offer fresh apples throughout the year, even during the off-season. 

How are Apples Stored Commercially?

Apples are stored in a cool environment with low oxygen levels and increased carbon dioxide levels during controlled-atmosphere storage. Apples picked from August to November based on variety will be stored in the refrigerated method. Giant warehouses preserve apples at the Fahrenheit of 34 to 38 degrees without losing their sweetness and crunchiness until they are shipped to a supermarket. Storing in warehouses extends the availability throughout the year. However, it is important to note that the storage method of apples only partially halts the aging process, slows down the ripening process, and preserves the freshness of the fruit.

Variety of Apples

The most important factor is the variety of apples. Varieties of apples including  Granny Smith or Fuji, have a longer shelf when compared to other types. Different apple varieties have different harvesting seasons. So, if you find a particular variety of apples outside of its usual season, it is confirmed that the apple has been stored for an extended period.

Don’t panic! The taste will be the same if apples are stored properly. They might lose a tiny bit of acid in storage, but it won’t lose their nutritious content. Regardless of the age, it is still a healthy choice and a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. 

Also, it is important to know the benefits of Apple in your day-to-day life, read the blog. 

Conclusion

Supermarket apples can be several months old by the time they reach the shelves. The controlled-atmosphere storage method employed by supermarkets helps extend their shelf life, allowing us to enjoy fresh apples throughout the year. So, the next time you bite into a crisp apple from the supermarket, always think that it has gone through a journey to reach you.