Nutriciologist told how to store pineapple so that it does not lose its beneficial properties

“The basis of the diet of most of us is made up of familiar fruits and vegetables, which can be purchased at any time of the year. But, in addition to these, many often buy tropical ones. This includes pineapple.”

Benefits of pineapple

Pineapple is a tropical fruit native to South America and cultivated in various regions of the world. Parts of the plant have traditionally been used to treat many diseases such as diabetes, bacterial infections, inflammation, arthritis, asthma, malaria, cardiovascular disease and burns, and as a wound treatment.

The product is very popular for its unique smell and sweet taste. The fruit is known as an aromatic fruit because it contains a number of volatile compounds in small quantities and complex mixtures.

The fruit is the third most popular fruit after bananas and citrus fruits, and the demand for it is increasing significantly in the international market.

The fruit has a mass of useful properties:

• Is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. For example, it contains vitamin C and potassium. It also includes flavonoids, carotenoids, tannins, polyphenols and alkaloids;
• contains bioactive compounds, dietary fiber and nutrients;
• has various health benefits including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity and control of nervous system function;
• is rich in manganese. This mineral stimulates growth processes, is involved in the regulation of carbohydrate and fat metabolism, and aids in the breakdown of fat. A higher intake of this nutrient helps reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes;
• helps with stomach upset;
• is an aphrodisiac. These are commonly referred to as foods that induce or stimulate sexual desire. They also include almonds, anise, arugula, asparagus, avocados, bananas, chocolate, coffee, coriander, fennel, figs, ginger, hot peppers, nutmeg, oysters, pine nuts and strawberries.

How to choose a pineapple?

Physician, nutritionist, biohacker and businessman

“When choosing a pineapple at the store, pay attention to the following points.”

Color

Look for a fruit with a golden yellow or orange hue to the rind. The fruit may have brown veins. A greenish color indicates unripeness. It is better if the scales are dried out.

Leaves

Fresh palm-like leaves should be green and firm. They are also called sultan. If the fruit is ripe, the leaves will roll through easily.

Flavor

The presence of a sweet aroma at the base of the pineapple is a good sign of its maturity. It is important that it be light. A strong cloying odor says that the fruit is overripe and has already started to ferment. If you can’t smell anything at all, it means that the fruit was cut unripe.

Density

Pineapple should be firm but slightly pliable when pressed. If the fruit is pressed hard, it is overripe. You can also tap it. A hollow sound will indicate that it can be bought.

How to prepare pineapple for storage?

Before storing the fruit should be properly prepared. To do this, it needs to be peeled. How to do it:

1. Remove the top and bottom of the fruit with the help of a knife.
2. Next, peel the fruit from the peel and eyes with longitudinal movements of the knife.
3. Cut the pulp into slices or rings as desired.

How and where to store pineapple?

The fruit can be stored in several ways.

Paper bag

An unripe pineapple is best stored in a paper bag. Place it in a dark place at a temperature of +8 degrees. To increase the speed of ripening of the fruit, put a ripe banana or apple in there. They release ethylene, which accelerates ripening.

In the refrigerator

You can store pineapple in the refrigerator as a whole, and in a cut. In the first case, remove the fruit to the fruit drawer in a paper bag. Keeping it for more than a week is not recommended. Keep the sliced pulp in an airtight container for up to five days.

In the freezer

Frozen pineapple keeps for up to six months. Arrange the slices on a baking tray, freeze and then unpeel into bags. If you are faced with the problem of the fruit spoiling quickly, then also try freezing. Not only will this prevent spoilage, but it will also allow you to enjoy your favorite fruit any time of the year. Just remember proper preparation and airtight packaging to avoid ice crystals.

Signs of pineapple spoilage

The main signs that indicate that the fruit has begun to spoil are:

• color change (appearance of dark spots);
• unpleasant odor (sour or fermented flavor);
• softness and moisture (especially if the fruit has become too soft in certain areas).

Remember that the right choice and storage of pineapple will not only increase its life, but also help to preserve all the useful properties of this amazing tropical fruit.