Buying the best fresh fruits

Learn the secrets of selecting the very best

Grapes. For all grape varieties, pick the ones that are plump and have flexible stems. Refrigerate and use as soon as possible.

Melons. Pick the sweetest melons by fragrance and make sure the blossom end is somewhat indented and soft to pressure.

•           Ripe cantaloupes are yellowish, with thick, coarse veining. Avoid ones that are too soft.

•           The best honeydew melons are those with creamy or yellowish-white smooth skin. If a honeydew melon appears dead-white or greenish-white and has a very hard feel, it will never ripen properly.

•           When choosing a whole watermelon, pikc one that is firm and smooth. The underside should be yellowish or cream-white. To test the ripeness of an uncut watermelon, gently knock or rap on the rind. You should hear a deep, hollow “thump.” The inside should appear bright red, firm and juicy, with mostly black seeds. White streaks in the melon indicate a less sweet fruit.

Oranges. Choose oranges that are firm and heavy with finely textured skin. Valencias, Temples and Kings produce the sweetest juice. Navel oranges are good for eating. Refrigerate and eat within two weeks.

Apples. Choose those with bright color and no bruises. They should be firm and hard to the touch.

Bananas. It’s usually best to choose bananas that are slightly under-ripe and allow them to ripen at home. Choose those that are bright yellow, have no bruises, and are slightly green at the stem end. Never store bananas in the refrigerator. If you’re going to be using bananas one at a time, cut off the end of the connecting stem and separate them gently. This prevents splitting or breaking the peel of the remaining bananas when you separate one from the bunch.

Peaches. Peaches won’t mature or get sweeter once picked (they only soften and wither). So choose a firm but well-colored peach for the best flavor. Refrigerate and use within five days.

Pineapples. A well-ripened pineapple can be determined by fragrance, a small compact crown, richly colored crown leaves and protruding eyes. Pineapples store best at 70°, away from direct sunlight.

Plums. Choose plums that are soft but not mushy, shriveled or brown. Refrigerate and use within five days. — From Hints, Tips & Smart Advice by FamilyCircle