How to Keep Apples From Turning Brown

Imagine you’ve just chopped up a fresh apple. You can’t wait to sink your teeth in to each crisp, juicy bite. However, after just a few minutes, you notice your apple slices already browning. This process does more than just make the apples less appealing to eat. When apples brown, they can also start to lose a bit of their juicy flavor or even become a bit softer in texture.

Fortunately, there are a number of easy methods you can use to keep your apples from turning brown. Here are some of the best options for families who love fresh apples and want every bite to be as crisp and tasty as possible.

Before you learn about methods for keeping apples fresh, it helps to understand why they turn brown in the first place. The reason that apple slices often brown over time has to do with a particular enzyme in the fruit. When you slice into an apple, the enzyme becomes exposed to oxygen, causing the oxidation process to begin. The longer the enzyme is exposed, the browner each slice will become.

Method #1: Lemon Juice

Lemon juice contains citric acid, which is a natural anti-oxidant. Therefore, when you apply lemon juice to apple slices, it helps to prevent the oxidation process.

To use this method to prevent apples from turning brown, create a water bath for your apple slices with a ratio of 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to 1 cup of water. Soak the apple slices for 3 to 5 minutes, then drain and rinse them. This simple step should keep your apples from browning for several hours.

The same effect can actually be achieved with lime juice, orange juice, or pineapple juice since they also contain citric acid. Keep in mind that these citrus juices may add a slightly tart flavor to your slices, so it’s best when used on sweeter varieties of apples

Method #2: Carbonated Drinks

Citric acid can also be found in carbonated drinks such as lemon-like soda, ginger ale, and seltzer water. Simply soak your apples in a bowl of your preferred beverage for 3 to 5 minutes.

You can rinse the apples after soaking them or just eat them as is. Some people enjoy the added flavor from certain carbonated drinks.

Method #3: Salt

As a natural preservative, salt can also keep your apples from turning brown too quickly. The layer of salt will help slow down the oxidation process considerably.

Once you’ve cut your apple slices, spread them out on a plate. Sprinkle kosher salt over the exposed apply flesh. The fruit should not taste too salty if you use less than a tablespoon of salt per apple.

Method #4: Plastic Wrap

Using physical barrier on your apple slices will help to prevent the oxidation process from occurring. For the best results, have your plastic wrap laid out before you slice your apples. Place them on the plastic wrap immediately after slicing, then wrap them up as tightly as possible to avoid any air from getting in.

Method #5: Rubber Band

Similar to plastic wrap, the rubber band method works by keeping air from touching the apple’s flesh. Slice your apple then reassemble it into a whole apple shape. Wrap the rubber band around tightly to keep air out.

Ready to eat some fresh, crisp fruit? Use these tips to keep your apple from turning brown the next time you slice one up.