Guidelines for Buying, Storing and Preparing (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes

Guidelines for Buying, Storing and Preparing Fruit

Buying Fruit:

1. Buy in-season – It's fresher, better quality, and usually cheaper.
2. Buy in usable quantities – Fruit is perishable, meaning it can spoil quickly.
3. Avoid pre-packed fruit – Loose fruit allows you to check for freshness.
4. Check for signs of damage – Avoid fruit that shows wilting, bruising, rot, or mould.

Storing Fruit:

1. Remove plastic wrapping – This prevents fruit from sweating and going off quickly.
2. Use the fridge – Most fruits should be stored in the fridge's fruit and vegetable drawer.
3. Store fresh produce properly – Some fruits, like apples and citrus, can be stored in the fridge, while others, like bananas, can be kept at room temperature.

Preparing Fruit:

1. Wash well in cold water – Remove any dirt or damaged parts.
2. Peel only if necessary – Many nutrients are found in the skin.
3. Peel thinly – Use a peeler to avoid wasting nutrients.
4. Avoid soaking – Don't steep fruit as it can lose vitamins.
5. Prepare and serve quickly – Cut and serve fruits like apples and pears immediately to prevent browning.