You grab a bright red apple at the market and wonder if it's truly fresh, or pick up a bunch of bananas that seem ripe but worry they'll brown too fast.

Choosing and storing fruits might seem simple, but there's a surprising amount of technique behind keeping them fresh and flavorful. Small habits at the store and at home can make a big difference in taste, texture, and shelf life.

How to Choose Fruits Wisely

1. Check for ripeness: Many fruits continue to ripen after picking, but you want to select ones that aren't overripe. For apples and pears, look for firm flesh without soft spots. For mangoes and peaches, a gentle squeeze can indicate ripeness—they should give slightly but not feel mushy.

2. Look at color and texture: Bright, vibrant color often indicates optimal ripeness and flavor. Avoid fruits with dull or uneven coloring unless that's natural for the variety. Also, check the skin for wrinkles, blemishes, or mold. For citrus fruits, smooth and firm skin is ideal.

3. Smell matters: Aroma is a strong indicator of ripeness for fruits like melons, pineapples, and peaches. A sweet fragrance signals that the fruit is ready to eat. If there's little to no scent, it may need more time to ripen.

Storing Fruits Properly

1. Separate fruits wisely: Some fruits release ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening. Apples, bananas, and avocados are examples. Keep these away from more delicate fruits like berries or leafy greens to prevent premature spoilage.

2. Use the fridge smartly: Not all fruits need refrigeration. Berries, grapes, and citrus do best in the fridge, while bananas, mangoes, and peaches should stay at room temperature until ripe. Once ripened, you can refrigerate them to extend freshness.

3. Proper containers: Store berries in breathable containers rather than sealed plastic bags to prevent moisture buildup. For other fruits, lightly ventilated bowls or produce drawers in the fridge work well. Avoid washing fruits until just before eating to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Extending Shelf Life with Simple Tricks

1. Wrap stems or cut surfaces: For fruits like bananas or cut melons, wrapping the exposed areas with plastic wrap slows down oxidation and browning.

2. Use paper towels: Lining containers with paper towels can absorb excess moisture, especially for berries, preventing them from getting soggy.

3. Freeze for later: Fruits that are overripe but still edible can be frozen for smoothies, desserts, or baking. Slice, pit, or core as needed and store in airtight bags. This not only reduces waste but gives you convenient options for quick meals.

Practical Tips for Daily Use

• Inspect fruits regularly and remove any that show early signs of spoilage to protect the rest.

• Plan purchases based on how quickly you'll eat them; smaller batches can help reduce waste.

• Consider a fruit basket on the counter for easy access to ready-to-eat options, encouraging snacking on fresh produce rather than processed foods.

Choosing and storing fruits is more than just picking the brightest apple or the biggest mango. By paying attention to ripeness, aroma, and storage conditions, you can maximize flavor, nutrition, and shelf life. Small habits like separating ethylene-producing fruits, refrigerating when needed, and freezing extras can make a noticeable difference in how long fruits stay fresh.

Next time you shop for fruits, take a moment to feel, smell, and inspect them carefully. At home, a little thought in storage can save money, reduce waste, and ensure that every bite is as tasty and nutritious as possible. Fresh fruits not only brighten your meals but also contribute to healthier daily eating habits. With these simple strategies, you'll consistently enjoy fruits at their peak, making every snack or meal a flavorful, healthful experience.