Why Do Peaches Ripen in a Paper Bag?
Peaches are frequently sold before they are ripe so consumers can eat them over a period of time rather than immediately. For quicker ripening, the fruit can be placed inside a paper bag where a hormone it releases accelerates maturation. Does this Spark an idea?
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Function
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Peaches as well as nectarines, plums and various other fruits and vegetables emit ethylene as they ripen and mature. When placed in a paper bag, the ethylene surrounding the peach is contained and hastens the ripening process.
Procedure
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Leave the bag open at the top to allow air to flow around the peach. If ripening more than one peach, do not let the fruit touch as this may cause over ripening and spoilage at the contact points. Keep the bag at room temperature. Use only paper bags. Plastic bags restrict airflow and may make the fruit taste odd.
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Alternate Method
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Enclosing an unripened peach in two linen table napkins will ripen it faster. Loosely place the napkins on each half of the peach to allow air to flow around it. The peach will ripen faster than normal but probably not as quickly as inside a paper bag.
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References
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