To maximize your apple-eating experience, follow these simple tips for selecting, handling, storing and preparing apples:

• Select apples that are bruise-free, and handle them gently to prevent bruising.
• Select apples that are firm to the touch, for the best flavor and crunchiness.
• Store apples in the refrigerator to slow ripening and maintain flavor. Properly-refrigerated apples can have a shelf life of 90 days or more.
• Store apples away from strong-smelling foods, to prevent them from absorbing unpleasant odors.
• Wash individually-sold apples in cool water before serving.
• Coat apple slices and dices in a mixture of one part lemon juice to three parts water – or in vitamin C-fortified 100% apple juice like RJO's Fuji apple juice – to retard browning.

Summer fruits (Strawberries, cherries, raspberries, apricots and peaches) should be selected and stored in similar fashion, however addition care should be taken to keep these fruits free of excess moisture prior to storage, and refrigerated immediately after purchase up until used (apricots and peaches can be finished off by leaving at room temperature a day before use).