Learn why grapes wrinkle in the fridge and how to prevent it. Discover the right storage method to keep them plump, juicy, and fresh for longer.
1 Answer
Grapes wrinkle in the fridge because they lose moisture to the dry air, causing them to dehydrate and their skin to shrivel. This process is accelerated by the fridge's low humidity.
Detailed Explanation:
Grapes, like many fruits and vegetables, are mostly water. When placed in a refrigerator, which typically has low humidity, the water inside the grapes evaporates and moves into the drier air. This process is called osmosis. Because the grape's skin is semi-permeable, water can escape. As the water leaves the grape, the internal pressure decreases, causing the grape to lose its plumpness and the skin to wrinkle. The colder temperature of the fridge slows down the ripening process, which is good, but it also contributes to the drying out effect if the grapes are not properly stored. The longer the grapes are stored in the fridge without protection, the more pronounced the wrinkling becomes.
Pro Tip:
Store grapes in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator to maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out and wrinkling. This will significantly extend their freshness and prevent moisture loss.