Discover Why Supermarket Apples Can Be Up to a Year Old

Apples are a staple fruit enjoyed year-round in Australia, thanks to modern storage techniques. Many consumers may not realize that the apples they purchase can be nearly a year old. This is made possible through advanced methods that preserve freshness and quality.

How Supermarket Apples Can Be Up to a Year Old

In Australia, cool rooms and controlled atmosphere storage are essential for keeping fruits fresh. These facilities can store apples for extended periods, ensuring that consumers have access to them throughout the year. For instance, an apple harvested in February 2025 might still be consumed in 2026.

Controlled Atmosphere Technology

• Managed by organizations like the Orange Fruit Growers Co-Op in NSW.
• Apples are stored at around 2 degrees Celsius after being treated to inhibit fungicide growth.
• Storage involves reducing oxygen to 2 percent and adjusting CO2 levels, effectively putting the fruit in a dormant state.
• The fruit may remain in these conditions for six to eight months, ensuring maximum freshness.

Tim Riley, the manager of the Orange Fruit Growers Co-Op, emphasizes the significance of this technology. “Well-stored fruit maintains an attractive appearance and is available in supermarkets, even when it’s out of season,” he said.

Australian Apple Supply

According to Apple and Pear Australia, 99.7 percent of apples found in Australian supermarkets originate from local orchards. Jeremy Griffith, the head of industry for apple and pear growers, highlights the importance of maintaining a year-round supply for food security and minimizing waste. “This approach allows us to provide nutritious food consistently,” he noted.

Quality and Nutritional Value

Research indicates that the nutritional difference between freshly harvested apples and those stored for several months is negligible. John Golding, a senior research scientist from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, explains that the ripening process continues during storage, although it may be slower. He reassures consumers that even apples stored for a while remain healthy and safe to eat.

The History of Cold Storage

The technique of storing food to extend its shelf life is not new. The Romans utilized underground limestone to keep produce fresh, which dates back to the first century BC. More recent advancements, such as electric refrigeration, have revolutionized food storage practices, allowing long-distance transport of fresh produce.

In summary, the ability to enjoy apples year-round in Australia relies on innovative storage solutions that ensure freshness and quality. This sophisticated management of fruits not only aids in consistent supply but also minimizes food wastage, making it integral to the Australian food system.