How to Keep Pineapple From Browning

By: Zora Hughes

Burke/Triolo Productions/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

Sweet, tart pineapple can be eaten fresh, cooked into savory dishes or baked into fruity desserts. Fresh pineapples have a relatively short shelf-life, as they must be fully ripe to be picked. Once you cut into a pineapple, it starts to brown, or oxidize, quickly if it's not properly stored. If you don't plan on eating the pineapple you just purchased right away, it's important to store it in the fridge or freezer to help it retain its freshness.

Step 1

Keep the pineapple whole in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping the skin on the pineapple prevents oxidation until you're ready to eat or cook with it.

Step 2

Slice the pineapple and coat the slices with lemon juice; use a pastry brush or dip the slices in the juice. The ascorbic acid in the lemon juice slows down the browning that occurs when the flesh of pineapple is exposed to air. Store the slices in an airtight plastic container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Step 3

Cut the pineapple into chunks and store it in a large freezer-safe resealable bag. Add as much fresh pineapple juice as possible to the bag, which helps the pineapple keep its flavor. Squeeze out the excess air from the bag before sealing it. You can store the pineapple in the freezer for up to one year.