If you have just purchased a couple of pineapples, you may be wondering how long they can last in your pantry.
In this article we will discuss pineapples and their shelf life. Also, we will show you how to store pineapples properly and how to tell if they have gone bad.
More about Pineapples
The pineapple is one of the most favorite fruits because of its sweet taste and high vitamin content. It is a tropical plant with edible fruits. The pineapples are the only source of bromelain, an enzyme that contains anti-inflammatory properties. You can consume pineapples fresh, juiced, preserved or cooked. Pineapples have many health benefits and they are consumed in cuisines all around the world.
What Is the Shelf Life of Pineapples?
The shelf life of pineapples depends on the way of their storage as well as on the time when the pineapples were picked. When you are choosing pineapples, you should take in consideration two factors: their ripeness and deterioration. Ripeness refers to a measure whether the pineapple is ready to eat or not, while deterioration determines if the pineapple began to break down or it is still fresh.
As all other foods, pineapples will last for a shorter period of time if you don’t provide them a proper storage. It is important to know that pineapples, like many other fresh fruits, don’t have a use by date or a best before date. It means that you have to use the date when the pineapples are picked or the date when they are purchased. If you store the whole pineapples in the fridge, they will last about 3-5 days.
If you store sliced pineapples in an airtight container in the fridge, it is recommended to eat them within six days. When you freeze the pineapples they can last for up to 12 months.
How To Store Pineapples Properly?
The proper storage is the most important factor when it comes to the shelf life of pineapples. It is best to store them in the fridge, but it is not necessary if they are not cut. The first few days after buying them, pineapples don’t need to be refrigerated, but you should keep an eye on your pineapples, to see if there are any signs of deterioration. Experts usually recommend buying pineapples on the same day when you intend to eat them. This way you will avoid deterioration. If you cut pineapples you should store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This way you will extend their shelf life.
If you want to store your pineapples for a longer period of time, it is best to freeze them in the freezer safe containers. Before freezing a pineapple, you should remove its skin and its core first. It is also important to leave a little air in the container where you store your pineapples.
How To Tell if Pineapples Have Gone Bad?
You will easily notice if your pineapples have gone bad. Your fruit will look old and brown and it will be pretty dry, but the bottom of the pineapple will be soft and wet. Also, the pineapples will lose their sweet aroma and they will smell sour. If you notice that your pineapples turned a dark gold color and if they became softer, it means that they have gone bad.
Also, the taste of the fruit will be different and you will easily notice that it has gone rancid. If you notice these changes, you should discard the pineapples. Have in mind that rancid food is not good for your health and it is best to toss it as soon as possible.
