Shocking Truth: Your Grocery Store Apples May Be Over a Year Old—Here’s What You Need to Know!

When you grab an apple from the supermarket, you might think it’s fresh. But here’s the twist: most apples sold in the U.S. are picked in late summer to mid-fall, often stored for months before hitting the shelves.

After they’re harvested, apples are cooled quickly to near-freezing temperatures to slow ripening and keep moisture. They are stored in controlled environments with low oxygen and high carbon dioxide levels. This setting slows down ethylene production, the hormone responsible for ripening. By keeping ethylene in check, apples maintain their firmness and tartness for a long time. The low oxygen also helps keep pests away and prevents mold growth.

Some apple types, like Red Delicious and Granny Smith, can last in storage for 10 to 12 months without losing much quality. So the apples you see in winter could have been picked many months ago but still taste pretty good.

If you’re looking for the best and freshest apples, plan your shopping during the harvest season, which runs from early August to late October. Prices are usually lower during this time. After that, you’ll notice a price increase as the stored apples start to degrade, even with the advanced storage methods used.

Interestingly, not all apples age the same way in storage. For example, Honeycrisp apples soften quicker, lasting about four to six months, while Fuji and Gala apples can last around six to nine months. The Cosmic Crisp is a newer variety that can hold up for about 12 months without losing much taste.

According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, apple consumption is on the rise. In 2022, Americans ate 16.4 pounds of apples per person, up from 15.5 pounds in 2021. This trend suggests that apples remain a popular fruit choice, beloved for their versatility and health benefits.

So, whether you’re baking an apple pie or just enjoying one as a snack, remember that the apple in your hand might have a longer journey than you think!

For more on apple types and storage, check this trusted source.

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Red Delicious, fresh produce, fall harvest, storage techniques, Honeycrisp apples, CA storage