Vienna, VA — The nation's apple growers today urged consumers to put apples in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator this fall to keep the crunch for up to three months.

Apples ripen ten times faster at room temperature than refrigerated.

"To keep apples crisp keep them cold," said Wendy Davis, R.D., a registered dietitian with the U.S. Apple Association, which represents the nation's 9,000 apple growers.

"When apples are placed in a bowl on the dining room table, plan to eat them immediately to ensure good quality," she said. "Keep them off the windowsill too."

Cool air helps maintain quality, juiciness, and crispness, and helps prevent decay. Storage at 32-35 degrees F. is ideal.

Although the refrigerator is the preferred storage place, consumers can also keep apples in a cool cellar, garage, or porch.

Remember to keep apples away from other produce. Apples can absorb odor from cabbage, carrots, figs, onions, meat, eggs, and dairy products.

Other tips:P>

• Select apples that are bruise-free, and handle them gently to prevent bruising.
• Wash individually-sold apples in cool water before serving.
• Coat apple slices and dices in vitamin C-fortified 100% apple juice-or a mixture of one part lemon juice to three parts water - to prevent browning.

The nation's apple harvest begins this month and lasts through November. .