{"id":19320,"date":"2026-07-18T17:00:59","date_gmt":"2026-07-18T17:00:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/?p=19320"},"modified":"2026-07-18T17:00:59","modified_gmt":"2026-07-18T17:00:59","slug":"how-to-pick-the-best-fruits-at-the-grocery-store-a-shoppers-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/2026\/07\/18\/how-to-pick-the-best-fruits-at-the-grocery-store-a-shoppers-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Pick the Best Fruits at the Grocery Store (A Shopper&#8217;s Guide)"},"content":{"rendered":"<nav id=\"breadcrumb\">\n<nav id=\"breadcrumb\">\n<div class=\"post-meta\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"post-body\" class=\"post-body post-content\">\n<div class=\"_4f9bf79 _43c05b5\" data-virtual-list-item-key=\"600\">\n<div class=\"ds-message _63c77b1\">\n<div class=\"ds-markdown\">\n<h2>Engaging Introduction<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Growing up as the child of one of the most famous entertainers in history comes with challenges that few people can truly understand. For Paris Jackson, the daughter of music icon Michael Jackson, life has always unfolded under intense public attention. From an early age, nearly every aspect of her childhood attracted media interest, creating a unique set of pressures that shaped her journey into adulthood.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip google-anno-sc\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"How-To, DIY &amp; Expert Content\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\">How-To, DIY &amp; Expert Content<\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">While many people recognize Paris because of her famous last name, her story is far more than a continuation of her father&#8217;s legacy. Over the years, she has worked to establish her own voice, pursue her own creative passions, and build an identity that reflects who she is as an individual rather than simply being known as Michael Jackson&#8217;s daughter.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">I remember watching the footage of Michael Jackson&#8217;s memorial service in 2009. Paris, just eleven years old, stepped up to the microphone, her voice trembling, and said, &#8220;Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine.&#8221; The world wept with her. In that moment, she wasn&#8217;t just Michael Jackson&#8217;s daughter. She was a grieving child who had lost her father.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">That image stayed with me. I wondered what her life would become. Would she disappear from public view? Would she try to follow in her father&#8217;s footsteps? Would she reject the spotlight entirely?<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Fifteen years later, we have our answer. Paris Jackson has become a model, a musician, an actress, and an activist. But more importantly, she has become her own person\u2014someone who honors her father&#8217;s legacy without being defined by it.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Let me tell you her story.<\/p>\n<h2>The Early Years: Growing Up at Neverland<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson was born on April 3, 1998, in Beverly Hills, California. She was the second child of Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe, his former nurse. Her older brother, Prince Michael Jackson I (now known as Michael &#8220;Prince&#8221; Jackson), was born in 1997. Her younger brother, Prince Michael Jackson II (nicknamed &#8220;Blanket,&#8221; now known as Bigi), was born in 2002 via surrogate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The children spent much of their early childhood at Neverland Ranch, Michael Jackson&#8217;s sprawling estate in Santa Barbara County. The property had its own zoo, amusement park rides, and movie theater. It was a magical place for children\u2014but also a place of isolation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris has spoken about how her father kept them away from the public eye. They wore masks when they went out to shield their identities. They were homeschooled. Their world was small, controlled, and intensely private.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">In a 2017 interview with\u00a0<em>Rolling Stone<\/em>, Paris said, &#8220;My dad was very protective. He didn&#8217;t want the world to have us. He wanted us to have a childhood.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">That childhood ended abruptly on June 25, 2009, when Michael Jackson died of cardiac arrest caused by a propofol overdose. Paris was eleven years old.<\/p>\n<h2>The Aftermath: Grief, Media, and Mental Health<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The years following her father&#8217;s death were tumultuous. Paris struggled with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. She has been open about her mental health challenges, including self-harm and multiple suicide attempts.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">In a 2021 documentary, she said, &#8220;I was a suicidal teenager. I hated myself. I had no self-esteem. I thought I was ugly. I thought I was worthless.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She was also dealing with intense media scrutiny. Tabloids speculated about her appearance, her relationships, her weight, and her mental state. She was a teenager trying to grieve in public, and the world would not let her do it in peace.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">In 2013, after a reported suicide attempt, she was sent to a therapeutic boarding school in Utah. She stayed for two years. It was there that she began to heal.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">&#8220;It saved my life,&#8221; she said. &#8220;I learned that I was not alone. I learned that I was not broken. I learned that I could heal.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>Finding Her Voice: Music, Acting, and Modeling<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">When Paris emerged from treatment, she began to build a career on her own terms.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Modeling:\u00a0She signed with IMG Models in 2017 and has appeared in campaigns for Vogue, Harper&#8217;s Bazaar, and other major publications. She&#8217;s known for her tattoos, her bohemian style, and her refusal to conform to conventional beauty standards.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Acting:\u00a0She made her acting debut in the 2018 film\u00a0<em>Gringo<\/em>\u00a0alongside David Oyelowo and Charlize Theron. She has also appeared in the TV series\u00a0<em>Star<\/em>\u00a0and the horror film\u00a0<em>The Turning<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Music:\u00a0She formed the band The Soundflowers with her then-boyfriend, Gabriel Glenn. Their self-titled EP was released in 2020. She has described her music as &#8220;folk rock with a hint of sadness.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She doesn&#8217;t try to sound like her father. She doesn&#8217;t want to. &#8220;I&#8217;m not trying to fill his shoes,&#8221; she said. &#8220;I&#8217;m trying to fill my own.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>Honoring Her Father (On Her Own Terms)<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris has been careful and deliberate in how she honors Michael Jackson&#8217;s memory.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She has a tattoo of his\u00a0<em>Dangerous<\/em>\u00a0album cover on her forearm. She has another tattoo of his signature. She keeps a photo of him on her nightstand.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">But she&#8217;s also critical of the way her father was treated by the media and by the people around him. She has spoken out about his death, about the 2019 documentary\u00a0<em>Leaving Neverland<\/em>\u00a0(which she has called a &#8220;lie&#8221;), and about the toll that fame took on him.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">&#8220;I&#8217;m not here to defend him,&#8221; she said. &#8220;I&#8217;m here to love him. He was my father. He was a person. He was complicated. And I miss him every single day.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>Activism and Advocacy<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris is also an activist. She&#8217;s spoken out about mental health awareness, suicide prevention, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental issues. She&#8217;s been open about her own struggles to reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">&#8220;Mental health is not something to be ashamed of,&#8221; she said. &#8220;It&#8217;s something to talk about. It&#8217;s something to heal from. It&#8217;s something to grow through.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She&#8217;s also been open about her sexual orientation, identifying as queer. She has said that she doesn&#8217;t like labels but that she&#8217;s attracted to people regardless of gender.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">&#8220;Love is love,&#8221; she said. &#8220;I don&#8217;t care what form it comes in. I care about the connection.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>Life Today: Peace, Purpose, and Possibility<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris currently lives in Los Angeles with her dogs and her cat. She continues to make music, act, and model. She also launched a mental health podcast called\u00a0<em>Unfiltered<\/em>, where she interviews other celebrities about their struggles.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She&#8217;s in a relationship with musician and producer Andy Samberg? No, that&#8217;s a rumor. She&#8217;s actually been linked to several people over the years, but she tends to keep her personal life private.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She&#8217;s active on social media\u2014especially Instagram, where she shares photos of her music, her art, her pets, and her travels. She uses her platform to promote causes she cares about and to connect with fans who have supported her throughout her journey.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">In a recent interview, she was asked what she wants her legacy to be. She paused for a long time before answering.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t know if I want a legacy,&#8221; she said. &#8220;I just want to live. I want to love. I want to make art. I want to be kind. I want to help people. That&#8217;s enough.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2>What We Can Learn from Paris Jackson<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s what I want you to take away from this story.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Grief is complicated. Healing is possible. And no one is defined solely by their family name.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris Jackson could have disappeared from public view. She could have cashed in on her father&#8217;s fame. She could have spent her life trying to be Michael Jackson&#8217;s daughter instead of becoming her own person.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She didn&#8217;t.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She chose to heal. She chose to create. She chose to speak out. She chose to be vulnerable, even when it was hard.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Her story is a reminder that we all have the power to build our own identities\u2014no matter where we come from, no matter who our parents are, no matter what the world expects of us.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris Jackson is not just Michael Jackson&#8217;s daughter.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">She is Paris Jackson. And that is enough.<\/p>\n<h2>A Final, Hopeful Word<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Paris once said, &#8220;I hope people remember me as someone who tried to make the world a little bit better. Not because of who my dad was. Because of who I am.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">I think she&#8217;s well on her way.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Now I&#8217;d love to hear from you.\u00a0What do you admire most about Paris Jackson? Have you followed her career? What&#8217;s your favorite memory of Michael Jackson? Drop a comment below \u2013 I read every single one.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">And if this story inspired you, please share it with someone who needs a reminder that healing is possible. A text, a link, a conversation. Good stories are meant to be shared. \ud83d\udc9b\ud83c\udfa4\ud83c\udf3f\u2728<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"dbe8cf4a\">This response is AI-generated, for reference only.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-flex _0a3d93b\">\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"_9663006\" data-virtual-list-item-key=\"601\">\n<div class=\"d29f3d7d ds-message _63c77b1\">\n<div class=\"fbb737a4\">How To Pick The Best Fruits At The Grocery Store<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"_4f9bf79 _43c05b5\" data-virtual-list-item-key=\"602\">\n<div class=\"ds-message _63c77b1\">\n<div class=\"ds-markdown\">\n<h1>Engaging Introduction<\/h1>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfilled\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_4_host\"><\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">There&#8217;s nothing more disappointing than bringing home a beautiful piece of fruit\u2014only to cut it open and find it&#8217;s mealy, flavorless, or already rotting from the inside out.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">We&#8217;ve all been there. That rock-hard avocado that never ripens. The peach that looked perfect but tasted like cardboard. The watermelon that was watery and bland.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfill-optimized\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_5_host\">\n<div class=\"google-aiuf\" data-google-ad-efd=\"true\">\n<div class=\"goog-rentries\">\n<div><span tabindex=\"0\" role=\"heading\" aria-label=\"These are topics related to the article that might interest you\" aria-level=\"2\">Discover more<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Cakes\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Cakes\">Cakes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Dictionaries &amp; Encyclopedias\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Dictionaries &amp; Encyclopedias\">Dictionaries &amp; Encyclopedias<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"cooked\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"cooked\">cooked<\/span><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">I used to be a terrible fruit picker. I&#8217;d stand in the produce section, squeezing avocados, sniffing melons, and praying for the best. Half the time, I got it wrong.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Then I worked briefly at a farmers market and learned the secrets that fruit growers and grocers use to pick the best produce. It&#8217;s not luck. It&#8217;s not magic. It&#8217;s science and observation.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfilled\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_6_host\"><\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s everything I&#8217;ve learned about picking the best fruits at the grocery store\u2014so you can stop wasting money and start enjoying delicious, perfectly ripe fruit.<\/p>\n<h2>The Golden Rules (Apply to Almost All Fruits)<\/h2>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfill-optimized\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_7_host\">\n<div class=\"google-aiuf\" data-google-ad-efd=\"true\">\n<div class=\"goog-rentries\">\n<div><span tabindex=\"0\" role=\"heading\" aria-label=\"These are topics related to the article that might interest you\" aria-level=\"2\">Discover more<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Baked\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Baked\">Baked<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Dairy &amp; Eggs\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Dairy &amp; Eggs\">Dairy &amp; Eggs<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"salad\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"salad\">salad<\/span><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Before we dive into specific fruits, let me give you a few universal principles.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">1. Use your senses.\u00a0Touch, smell, and sight. A fruit&#8217;s appearance, firmness, and aroma are the best indicators of ripeness.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfilled\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_8_host\"><\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">2. Avoid bruises, cuts, and soft spots.\u00a0These indicate damage or internal rot.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">3. Don&#8217;t judge by color alone.\u00a0Color can be misleading. Some fruits are dyed, gassed, or picked early to look ripe when they&#8217;re not.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfilled\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_9_host\"><\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">4. Know your seasons.\u00a0Fruits that are in season (grown locally) are almost always better than those shipped from far away.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">5. When in doubt, smell it.\u00a0A ripe fruit should have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If it smells like nothing, it probably tastes like nothing.<!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<div id=\"post-body\" class=\"post-body post-content\">\n<div class=\"_4f9bf79 _43c05b5\" data-virtual-list-item-key=\"602\">\n<div class=\"ds-message _63c77b1\">\n<div class=\"ds-markdown\">\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Let me walk you through the most common fruits.<\/p>\n<h3>Avocados<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0A dark, bumpy skin (for Hass avocados). Gently press the stem end. If it yields slightly, it&#8217;s ripe. If it&#8217;s hard as a rock, it needs more time. If it&#8217;s mushy, it&#8217;s overripe.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfill-optimized\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_5_host\">\n<div class=\"google-aiuf\" data-google-ad-efd=\"true\">\n<div class=\"goog-rentries\">\n<div><span tabindex=\"0\" role=\"heading\" aria-label=\"These are topics related to the article that might interest you\" aria-level=\"2\">Discover more<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Cheese\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Cheese\">Cheese<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"salad\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"salad\">salad<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Cucumber\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Cucumber\">Cucumber<\/span><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The stem trick:\u00a0Pop off the small stem at the top. If the flesh underneath is green, it&#8217;s good. If it&#8217;s brown, it&#8217;s overripe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The shake test: If you hear the pit rattling inside, it&#8217;s overripe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Buy avocados at different stages. Use the ripe ones today, leave the firmer ones on the counter for later, and refrigerate the rest.<\/p>\n<h3>Bananas<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Bright yellow with few or no brown spots means ready to eat now. Green with no yellow means needs several days. Lots of brown spots means very sweet (perfect for baking).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The stem test: If the stem is still green, the banana was picked recently. If it&#8217;s brown, it&#8217;s been sitting longer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Bananas ripen faster when kept together. Separate them to slow ripening. Refrigerate bananas once they&#8217;re ripe to extend their life (the peel will turn brown, but the fruit inside stays perfect for days).<\/p>\n<h3>Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries)<\/h3>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfill-optimized\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_9_host\">\n<div class=\"google-aiuf\" data-google-ad-efd=\"true\">\n<div class=\"goog-rentries\">\n<div><span tabindex=\"0\" role=\"heading\" aria-label=\"These are topics related to the article that might interest you\" aria-level=\"2\">Discover more<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Cake\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Cake\">Cake<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Baked Goods\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Baked Goods\">Baked Goods<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Dictionaries &amp; Encyclopedias\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Dictionaries &amp; Encyclopedias\">Dictionaries &amp; Encyclopedias<\/span><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Bright, uniform color. No mushy or moldy berries in the container. The container should be dry (no liquid at the bottom, which indicates crushed or rotting berries).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The smell test: Open the container and sniff. It should smell sweet and fragrant. If it smells sour or fermented, put it back.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Check the bottom of the container. That&#8217;s where the oldest, softest berries tend to hide.<\/p>\n<h3>Cantaloupe and Honeydew<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0A golden-yellow color (not green) on cantaloupe. A creamy-yellow color (not white) on honeydew. The stem end should be slightly soft when pressed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The smell test:\u00a0Sniff the stem end. It should smell sweet and fragrant. If it has no smell, it&#8217;s not ripe. If it smells sour or fermented, it&#8217;s overripe.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\"><ins class=\"adsbygoogle adsbygoogle-noablate\" data-ad-format=\"auto\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-5833792860241142\" data-adsbygoogle-status=\"done\" data-ad-status=\"unfill-optimized\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"aswift_12_host\">\n<div class=\"google-aiuf\" data-google-ad-efd=\"true\">\n<div class=\"goog-rentries\">\n<div><span tabindex=\"0\" role=\"heading\" aria-label=\"These are topics related to the article that might interest you\" aria-level=\"2\">Discover more<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"How-To, DIY &amp; Expert Content\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"How-To, DIY &amp; Expert Content\">How-To, DIY &amp; Expert Content<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Crafts\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Crafts\">Crafts<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"google-anno-skip goog-rentry\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" aria-label=\"Baked\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" data-google-interstitial=\"false\"><span title=\"Baked\">Baked<\/span><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/ins><\/div>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The shake test:\u00a0For cantaloupe, you should hear the seeds rattling inside when you shake it.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip: Avoid melons with soft spots, bruises, or cracks.<\/p>\n<h3>Cherries<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for: Bright, shiny skin. Firm flesh. Green stems (brown stems mean older fruit).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The taste test:\u00a0If the store allows it, sample one. Cherries should be sweet and juicy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip: Avoid cherries with shriveled skin or sticky residue.<\/p>\n<h3>Citrus (Oranges, Grapefruit, Lemons, Limes)<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Heavy for their size (more juice). Firm but not hard. Thin, smooth skin (thick, rough skin means less juice). Bright color (though color isn&#8217;t always a ripeness indicator; oranges can be green and still sweet).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The squeeze test:\u00a0Gently squeeze the fruit. It should have a little give but not be soft.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Don&#8217;t judge an orange by its color. Some of the sweetest oranges are greenish.<\/p>\n<h3>Grapes<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Plump, firm grapes firmly attached to green stems (brown, brittle stems mean older grapes). A light, white bloom (yeast) on the skin is natural and desirable.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The taste test:\u00a0Sample one if allowed. Grapes should be sweet and crisp.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Avoid grapes that are wrinkled, soft, or have brown spots.<\/p>\n<h3>Kiwis<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Firm but yields slightly to gentle pressure (like an avocado). Fuzzy brown skin (no wrinkles, which indicate dehydration).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The squeeze test:\u00a0Gently squeeze. If it&#8217;s hard as a rock, it&#8217;s not ripe. If it&#8217;s mushy, it&#8217;s overripe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Kiwis ripen at room temperature. Once ripe, store in the refrigerator.<\/p>\n<h3>Mangoes<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Slightly soft when gently squeezed (like a peach). A fruity, sweet aroma near the stem end. Red or yellow color (depending on variety), but color isn&#8217;t always reliable.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The squeeze test:\u00a0Gently squeeze. It should yield slightly but not be mushy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Avoid mangoes with black spots or wrinkled skin.<\/p>\n<h3>Peaches, Plums, and Nectarines (Stone Fruits)<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0A sweet, fragrant aroma. Slightly soft when gently squeezed (but not mushy). A creamy-yellow background color (for peaches; red blush doesn&#8217;t indicate ripeness).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The squeeze test:\u00a0Gently press near the stem end. It should give slightly.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Avoid fruits with green near the stem (they were picked too early and won&#8217;t ripen properly).<\/p>\n<h3>Pears<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0Firm but yields slightly to gentle pressure near the stem end (like an avocado). Smooth, unblemished skin.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The neck test:\u00a0Gently press your thumb at the stem end (the &#8220;neck&#8221; of the pear). If it gives slightly, it&#8217;s ripe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Pears ripen from the inside out. The neck ripens first, so always test there.<\/p>\n<h3>Pineapple<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0A sweet, tropical aroma at the base. Fresh, green leaves (not brown or wilted). Firm but slightly soft when squeezed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The leaf test:\u00a0If a leaf pulls out easily, it&#8217;s ripe. (But this isn&#8217;t always reliable.)<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The smell test:\u00a0Sniff the base. It should smell sweet and pineappley. If it smells fermented or sour, it&#8217;s overripe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip:\u00a0Avoid pineapples with soft spots, dark eyes, or a musty smell.<\/p>\n<h3>Watermelon<\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What to look for:\u00a0A creamy-yellow spot (field spot) on the bottom where it sat on the ground. The darker and creamier the yellow, the sweeter the melon. A hollow, deep sound when tapped.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The thump test:\u00a0Knock on the watermelon with your knuckles. A ripe one will sound hollow, like a drum. An underripe one will sound flat, like tapping a wall.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The weight test:\u00a0It should feel heavy for its size (means it&#8217;s full of water and not dried out).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Pro tip: Avoid watermelons with soft spots, cracks, or a white (instead of yellow) field spot.<\/p>\n<h2>How to Ripen Fruit at Home (And How to Store It)<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">At room temperature (on the counter):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Avocados, bananas, kiwis, mangoes, peaches, pears, plums, tomatoes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">In a paper bag (to speed ripening):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Place unripe fruit in a paper bag with a banana or apple (they release ethylene gas, which speeds ripening). Fold the top loosely.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">In the refrigerator (once ripe):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Most fruits can be refrigerated once ripe to extend their life. Berries, grapes, cherries, and citrus do well in the fridge.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Do not refrigerate before ripe:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Avocados, bananas, peaches, pears, plums, tomatoes (cold temperatures stop the ripening process).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What About Organic vs. Conventional?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">This is a personal choice. Here&#8217;s what you should know.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The &#8220;Dirty Dozen&#8221; (fruits with the most pesticide residue):\u00a0Strawberries, grapes, peaches, nectarines, apples, blueberries.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">The &#8220;Clean Fifteen&#8221; (fruits with the least pesticide residue):\u00a0Avocados, pineapple, mango, kiwi, cantaloupe, honeydew.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re on a budget, prioritize organic for the Dirty Dozen. Conventional is fine for the Clean Fifteen.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Is it better to buy fruit that&#8217;s already ripe or still firm?<br \/>\nBoth. Buy some ripe for immediate use and some still firm for later in the week.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Can I trust the &#8220;ripe&#8221; sticker on fruit?<br \/>\nNot always. Those stickers are marketing. Use your senses instead.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Why does my fruit sometimes not ripen?<br \/>\nIt was picked too early. Some fruits (like peaches and nectarines) will not ripen properly if picked before maturity.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Should I wash fruit before storing it?<br \/>\nNo. Wash right before eating. Moisture on the surface encourages mold and spoilage.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What&#8217;s the best way to store berries?<br \/>\nKeep them in their original container (with holes for airflow). Do not wash until ready to eat. Remove any moldy berries immediately.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">How can I tell if a fruit is GMO?<br \/>\nMost fresh fruits are not GMO. The only commercially available GMO fruits in the US are papaya (from Hawaii) and some varieties of apple (Arctic apples). Everything else is non-GMO.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">What&#8217;s the difference between &#8220;ripe&#8221; and &#8220;ready to eat&#8221;?<br \/>\n&#8220;Ripe&#8221; means the fruit has reached its peak flavor and texture. &#8220;Ready to eat&#8221; means it&#8217;s ready now. Some fruits (like bananas) are ripe before they&#8217;re ready to eat (they need to soften further).<\/p>\n<h2>A Confident, Flavorful Shopping Trip<\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s what I want you to take away from this guide.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">You don&#8217;t need to be a produce expert to pick good fruit. You just need to use your senses\u2014look, feel, and smell.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Check for soft spots, bruises, and mold. Give it a gentle squeeze. Sniff the stem end. And when in doubt, ask the produce clerk (they usually know which batch is best).<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">With these tips, you&#8217;ll never bring home a mealy peach or a bland watermelon again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Now go hit the produce aisle with confidence.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Now I&#8217;d love to hear from you.\u00a0What&#8217;s your best fruit-picking tip? What&#8217;s the worst fruit you&#8217;ve ever bought? Drop a comment below \u2013 I read every single one.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">And if this guide helps you pick better fruit, please share it with a friend who always struggles in the produce aisle. A text, a link, a conversation. Good information is meant to be shared. \ud83c\udf4e\ud83c\udf4c\ud83c\udf4a\ud83c\udf47<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/nav>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Engaging Introduction Growing up as the child of one of the most famous entertainers in history comes with challenges that&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":19321,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-19320","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19320","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19320"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19320\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19322,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19320\/revisions\/19322"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19321"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19320"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19320"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tastyrecipes.milaf.ma\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19320"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}