This one trick will prevent your avocados going brown and keep them fresh longer
Avocados make a delicious addition to many breakfasts, but very few things are more disappointing than discovering that your avocado is rotten and brown only a few days after you bought it.
To keep sliced avocados fresh, a common social media tip is to soak them in water. However, this approach is not only ineffective, but it also presents a risk to your health that could result in illness, The Express reports.
Salmonella and other bacteria thrive in the moist environment created when avocados are submerged in water. Bacteria on the avocado skin can multiply and contaminate the water, even if it appears clean.
And the experts at Appetise have revealed the proper way to store a sliced avocado half to make sure it lasts long enough to add to your breakfast plate. They say applying citrus juice to the flesh of an avocado is the best method to keep it fresh,.
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The Appetise team said: “We've all been there – you only needed half an avocado, and now you're left with the other half. But fear not! You can prevent it from turning brown and keep it fresh for later use.
“Start by drizzling the exposed flesh with some lemon or lime juice. The natural acidity acts as a shield against browning.”
When you cut an avocado and expose its flesh to air, an enzyme is activated, causing it to brown and spoil. The low pH of lemon juice inhibits this enzyme, preventing the browning process. Additionally, the juice forms a protective coating over the flesh, slowing down spoilage.
To minimise exposure to air, simply squeeze lemon juice over the avocado flesh, wrap it tightly in clingfilm, and store it in a lidded container. By doing this, you can enjoy a fresh morning treat while reducing food waste for a few extra days.
When preparing a savoury dish with your avocado and lacking lemon juice, consider storing it with a piece of onion.
The Appetise experts said: “The sulphur compounds contained in the onion help slow down oxidation, preventing browning. Store the avocado in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for an extra day or two.”
Before you try the onion slice preservation method, keep in mind that the onion will affect the avocado's flavour. Use the onion method if you're creating guacamole, but use the lemon method if you're using the avocado slice to make a smoothie.
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