Keeping apples fresh can be a challenge, especially if you buy in bulk or want to enjoy them over several weeks. This listicle covers a simple, often overlooked trick for apple storage: wrapping them in newspaper. Whether you’re a home cook, a farmer, or just someone who hates throwing away spoiled fruit, these tips will help you extend the crispness and flavor of your apples using something you likely discard every day.
Why Newspaper?
Newspaper is porous and breathable, allowing apples to release ethylene gas—a natural ripening agent—without trapping moisture. This balance prevents premature spoilage and slows down the softening process. Unlike plastic wraps, newspaper absorbs excess moisture, reducing the risk of mold and rot.
How to Wrap Apples in Newspaper
Use single sheets of newspaper to wrap each apple individually. Avoid crumpling the paper tightly; instead, fold it gently around the apple to maintain airflow. This method creates a protective barrier against bruising while preserving freshness by controlling humidity around the fruit.
Storing Wrapped Apples in a Cool, Dark Place
After wrapping, place your apples in a cool, dark area such as a basement, cellar, or refrigerator crisper drawer. Temperatures between 30°F and 40°F (about 0°C to 4°C) are ideal for slowing down respiration rates and extending shelf life. The newspaper wrapping complements this by minimizing moisture buildup.
Using Newspaper to Separate Apples
When storing multiple apples together, place sheets of newspaper between layers or individual fruits. This prevents apples from touching, which reduces bruising and the spread of spoilage. The paper acts as a cushion and moisture regulator, keeping each apple in better condition.
Benefits Over Plastic and Other Wrapping Materials
Plastic wrap and bags trap moisture, which can accelerate mold growth on apples. Newspaper, by contrast, absorbs excess moisture and allows apples to breathe, reducing spoilage. It’s also inexpensive, biodegradable, and readily available, making it an eco-friendly choice for food storage.
Considerations When Using Newspaper
Only use clean, non-glossy newspaper without colored inks or advertisements printed with potentially toxic dyes. Black and white print is generally considered safe for food contact. Avoid newspapers with heavy ink coverage or glossy inserts to reduce contamination risks.
Alternative Wrapping Materials Compared
Other materials like brown butcher paper, parchment paper, or cloth can also be effective for wrapping apples. However, newspaper remains the most accessible and cost-effective option for most households. Cloth requires washing and maintenance, while butcher paper may not be as breathable as newspaper.
How to Monitor Apples Wrapped in Newspaper
Check your wrapped apples regularly for signs of soft spots, mold, or discoloration. Replace the newspaper if it becomes damp to maintain dryness around the fruit. This proactive approach helps catch spoilage early and keeps the batch fresher longer.
Extending Shelf Life Beyond Wrapping
In addition to wrapping apples in newspaper, selecting the right apple varieties can influence storage time. Varieties like Fuji, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp have longer shelf lives compared to softer types such as McIntosh. Combine variety choice with proper wrapping for best results.
Using Newspaper Wrapping for Other Fruits
While this technique is particularly effective for apples, it can also be applied to pears and other fruits that release ethylene gas. Wrapping these fruits individually in newspaper slows ripening and prevents premature spoilage, making it a versatile storage hack.
How to Choose
When picking the best wrapping method for your apples, consider availability, breathability, and food safety. Newspaper is widely available and breathable, making it an excellent option. However, ensure the paper is clean and free of harmful inks. Also, think about your storage environment—cool, dark, and dry spaces complement newspaper wrapping best. For those concerned about ink transfer or prefer organic methods, unbleached parchment or cloth can be alternatives but may require more effort to maintain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use colored or glossy newspaper?
It’s best to avoid colored or glossy newspapers due to potentially toxic inks. Stick to black and white print to minimize contamination risks.
How long can apples last wrapped in newspaper?
Properly wrapped and stored apples can last up to 4-6 weeks, depending on variety and storage conditions.
Should I wash apples before wrapping them?
It’s better to wrap apples unwashed to avoid introducing moisture, which can promote mold. Wash them just before eating.
Can I reuse newspaper for wrapping?
Reusing newspaper is possible if it’s clean and dry, but fresh paper is more effective at absorbing moisture and preventing spoilage.
Does wrapping apples in newspaper affect their taste?
No, newspaper wrapping does not alter the taste. It only helps preserve texture and freshness.
Is it safe to store apples wrapped in newspaper in the fridge?
Yes, storing newspaper-wrapped apples in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer is effective and helps extend freshness.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping apples in newspaper is a simple, cost-effective way to extend their freshness and reduce waste. By absorbing excess moisture and allowing ethylene gas to escape, newspaper helps apples maintain their crispness longer than plastic or unwrapped storage. Combined with appropriate cool storage and careful monitoring, this everyday item you usually throw away can become an essential tool in your fruit preservation routine.
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