Content
- Pomegranates do not ripen
- Maturing and non-maturing fruits
- Storable despite full maturity
- Protection by tannin-rich shell
- Tips & Tricks
Pomegranates do not ripen
Pomegranates are next to pineapple, strawberries, table grapes, watermelons and citrus fruits to the so-called non-climacteric fruits that do not ripen after picking. Although pomegranates are ready for sale, they can be stored for a long time without loss of quality.
Maturing and non-maturing fruits
The non-maturing (or non-climacteric) fruits differ from the maturing (climacteric) fruits by their post-harvest respiratory behavior:
The fruits that no longer ripen after picking must therefore be harvested in fully matured state.
Storable despite full maturity
The climacteric fruits need only a certain minimum degree of maturity to be picked and then reach their full maturity during storage.The non-ripening fruits, however, are intended for early consumption and can not be stored for long because of their full ripeness. The pomegranate is an exception, thanks to its protective shell.
Protection by tannin-rich shell
The firm, leathery outer skin protects the edible seeds inside the pomegranate optimally against all external influences. The robust shell ensures that the pomegranates can be easily transported from the cultivation countries to Germany and stored for a few months without losing their freshness and taste.
During storage, the shell of the pomegranate dries and solidifies, but the pulp underneath remains fresh and juicy. Inside the pomegranate, the cores, which are covered with light or dark red juice, are additionally protected from drying out by the bright, soft partitions.
Tips & Tricks
Often one reads that in the countries of origin, the fruits, which are intended for the domestic use, are left on the tree until the shell bursts open. Such overripe pomegranates should taste best.
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