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URLhttps://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/
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Meta TitleHow to Keep Apples from Browning (4 Foolproof Ways!)
Meta DescriptionI tested 4 popular tricks to keep apples from browning—and found the one that actually works. No lemon juice, no weird taste, just crisp, fresh slices.
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Tired of slicing apples only to have them turn brown before you can enjoy them? I tested four of the most popular methods for how to keep apples from browning to see which one actually works (and passes the picky-kid taste test). The winner? A super simple trick that takes just 5 minutes—and it’s now a staple in our lunchboxes, party platters, snack prep and even cheese boards. Ah, the ol’ parent report card: Just how much of their lunch did they actually eat? If brown apple slices are regularly making their way back home untouched, you’re not alone. Luckily, I’ve tested four of the most popular methods for keeping sliced apples fresh—and I’ve got the scoop on which one actually works without leaving them tasting weird. The Best Way to Keep Apples from Browning Soak sliced apples in salt water (½ teaspoon salt per 1 cup of water) for 5 minutes. Rinse, dry and pack! It keeps them fresh without affecting the taste for up to 6 hours. I Tested 4 Popular Methods to Keep Apples Fresh Science experiment, but make it mom life. I tested the most popular tricks so you don’t have to—because if anyone’s going to be picky about apple slices turning brown, it’s our kids. Here’s to no more sad, brown apples making the trip back home in the lunchbox! Method 1: Lemon Juice The classic. A quick squeeze of lemon juice over sliced apples helps slow oxidation thanks to the acidity. It works, but let’s be honest—some kids (mine included) aren’t big fans of the tangy aftertaste. Method 2: Salt Water Soak This one surprised me! Soak the apple slices in a bowl of salt water (½ teaspoon salt per cup of water) for 5 minutes, then give them a quick rinse. The result? Crisp, fresh-looking apples with zero salty flavor. This method gets my vote for being the most effective without messing with taste. Method 3: Fruit Preserver Powder Fruit preservers (like Mrs. Wages Fresh Fruit Preserver ) are made from citric acid and are super effective at slowing browning. Just sprinkle and toss. It works well and doesn’t change the flavor, but it’s one more item to remember to buy. Method 4: Apple Juice Dunk Yep, apple juice! Dunking sliced apples in apple juice coats them in a similar pH and sugar level, which slows browning and keeps the flavor consistent. It’s a great option if you already have juice on hand, and it definitely passed the kid taste test. The Winner: Salt Water Soak Out of all the methods I tried, the salt water soak came out on top. The apples looked the freshest after several hours, and none of my kids noticed a difference in taste. No citrus tang, no salty bite, no extra gadgets needed. Just a quick 5-minute soak and a rinse. It’s simple, budget-friendly and totally lunchbox-friendly. And that’s Just a Taste Approved ! Why it works: The salt slows oxidation by pulling moisture to the surface and slightly lowering the pH. FAQs Do all apples brown at the same rate? Nope! Some apples brown faster than others. Granny Smiths tend to brown slower, while sweeter varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp brown more quickly. If your kid has a favorite, try the salt water method—it works across all types. Can I cut apples the night before and store them in the fridge? Yes! Use the salt water trick, rinse, dry, and then store them in an airtight container or snack bag in the fridge. I do this for school lunches all the time, and the apples stay crisp and fresh overnight. Will salt water make the apples taste salty? Not at all—as long as you rinse them after soaking! The salt works its magic during the soak but disappears after a quick rinse. My kids never notice a thing. How long will treated apples stay white in a lunchbox? With the salt water method, apples can look fresh for at least 6 hours—long enough to survive a full school day. I’ve even tested a few overnight, and they still looked great by morning. Is there a method that keeps apples white all day? None are totally foolproof, but salt water is your best bet for long-lasting results without affecting flavor. If appearance is a top priority (say, for a party platter), slice apples last-minute or use a fruit preserver powder. This simple trick for how to keep apples from turning brown has been a game changer for my crew—and now it’s your turn to try it! Whether you’re whipping up an epic charcuterie board or just trying to survive a Tuesday morning rush, this easy method keeps your apples crisp, fresh-looking and totally kid-approved. Got another lunch-packing question you want me to test? Let me know—I’m always game for a little mom science! Craving more? Subscribe to Just a Taste to get new recipes, meal plans and a newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! And stay in touch on Facebook , TikTok , Pinterest and Instagram for all of the latest updates. Prep Time 5 minutes Cook Time 0 minutes Total Time 5 minutes Servings 2 apples, scale as needed ▢ 1 cup cold water ▢ 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt ▢ Apple slices (1–2 apples, any variety) Stir the salt into the water until dissolved. Add apple slices and let soak for 5 minutes. Rinse, pat dry, and pack into lunchboxes, serve on party platters, or store in the fridge for snacks, salads or cheese boards. Works for any type of apple. Keeps slices looking fresh for up to 6 hours. Kid-approved and taste-tested—no salty flavor after rinsing! ★  Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below! Calories: 95 kcal , Carbohydrates: 25 g , Protein: 0.5 g , Fat: 0.3 g , Saturated Fat: 0.1 g , Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1 g , Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01 g , Sodium: 14 mg , Potassium: 195 mg , Fiber: 4 g , Sugar: 19 g , Vitamin A: 98 IU , Vitamin C: 8 mg , Calcium: 18 mg , Iron: 0.2 mg Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below with your star rating! This post may contain affiliate links. Categories Related Recipes Check out more crave-worthy favorites love the recipes on just a taste? Check out my cookbook! Order your copy of The Secret Ingredient Cookbook featuring 125 brand-new family-friendly recipes with surprisingly tasty twists!
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[Skip to content](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/#main-content) [![The Just a Taste Recipe Challenge logo featuring a fork, knife and spoon](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/recipe-challenge-2026-logo-scaled.png)](https://www.justataste.com/monthly-recipe-challenge/) Check out our new Recipe Challenge [Enter Now](https://www.justataste.com/monthly-recipe-challenge/) [Just a Taste](https://www.justataste.com/) - [Home](https://www.justataste.com/) - [Recipe Index](https://www.justataste.com/recipes/) - [All Recipes](https://www.justataste.com/recipes/) - [Appetizers](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/appetizers/) - [Beverages](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/beverages-cocktails/) - [Bread](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/breads/) - [Breakfast](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/breakfasts/) - [Desserts](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/desserts/) - [EntrĂŠes](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/entree-recipes/) - [Healthy](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/healthy-recipes/) - [Salads](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/salads-2/) - [Seafood](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/seafood/) - [Side Dishes](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/simple-sides/) - [Snacks](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/snack-recipes/) - [Soups](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/soups/) - [Cookbook](https://www.justataste.com/the-secret-ingredient-cookbook/) - [Home](https://www.justataste.com/) - [Kelly’s Edit](https://www.justataste.com/category/kellys-monthly-edit/) - [About](https://www.justataste.com/about-just-a-taste/) - [Contact](https://www.justataste.com/contact/) [Home](https://www.justataste.com/) › [Recipes](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/) › [Snacks](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/snack-recipes/) › How to Keep Apples from Browning # How to Keep Apples from Browning [![avatar](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/themes/justataste-2021/assets/images/avatar.jpg)](https://www.justataste.com/about-just-a-taste/) [Kelly Senyei](https://www.justataste.com/about-just-a-taste/) Posted: July 29, 2025 [Jump to Recipe](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/#wprm-recipe-container-66797) [2 Comments](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/#comments) Tired of slicing apples only to have them turn brown before you can enjoy them? I tested four of the most popular methods for **how to keep apples from browning** to see which one actually works (and passes the picky-kid taste test). The winner? A super simple trick that takes just 5 minutes—and it’s now a staple in our lunchboxes, party platters, snack prep and even cheese boards. ![Sliced apples that haven't turned brown, tucked into a lunchbox.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/add-apple-lunchbox.jpg) Ah, the ol’ parent report card: *Just how much of their lunch did they actually eat?* If brown apple slices are regularly making their way back home untouched, you’re not alone. Luckily, I’ve tested four of the most popular methods for keeping sliced apples fresh—and I’ve got the scoop on which one actually works without leaving them tasting weird. > ## **The Best Way to Keep Apples from Browning** > Soak sliced apples in salt water (\½ teaspoon salt per 1 cup of water) for 5 minutes. Rinse, dry and pack! It keeps them fresh without affecting the taste for up to 6 hours. ![Squeezing lemon juice over apple slices to test how soon they turn brown.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201810'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Squeezing lemon juice over apple slices to test how soon they turn brown.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/squeeze-lemon.jpg) ![Four apple slices soaking in a saltwater bath in a small bowl.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201810'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Four apple slices soaking in a saltwater bath in a small bowl.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/soak-salt-water.jpg) ![Apple slices sprinkled with a fruit preserver on a cutting board.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201810'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Apple slices sprinkled with a fruit preserver on a cutting board.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/fruit-preserver-1.jpg) ![A small bowl containing apple slices soaking in apple cider vinegar.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201810'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A small bowl containing apple slices soaking in apple cider vinegar.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/apple-juice-soak.jpg) ## I Tested 4 Popular Methods to Keep Apples Fresh Science experiment, but make it mom life. I tested the most popular tricks so you don’t have to—because if anyone’s going to be picky about apple slices turning brown, it’s our kids. Here’s to no more sad, brown apples making the trip back home in the lunchbox\! ### Method 1: Lemon Juice The classic. A quick squeeze of lemon juice over sliced apples helps slow oxidation thanks to the acidity. It works, but let’s be honest—some kids (mine included) aren’t big fans of the tangy aftertaste. ### Method 2: Salt Water Soak This one surprised me! Soak the apple slices in a bowl of salt water (\½ teaspoon salt per cup of water) for 5 minutes, then give them a quick rinse. The result? Crisp, fresh-looking apples with zero salty flavor. This method gets my vote for being the most effective without messing with taste. ### Method 3: Fruit Preserver Powder Fruit preservers (like [Mrs. Wages Fresh Fruit Preserver](https://amzn.to/41cKRAK)) are made from citric acid and are super effective at slowing browning. Just sprinkle and toss. It works well and doesn’t change the flavor, but it’s one more item to remember to buy. ### Method 4: Apple Juice Dunk Yep, apple juice! Dunking sliced apples in apple juice coats them in a similar pH and sugar level, which slows browning and keeps the flavor consistent. It’s a great option if you already have juice on hand, and it definitely passed the kid taste test. ![Side-by-side comparison of four sliced apples after testing different methods to prevent browning: lemon juice, salt water soak, fruit preserver and apple juice, plus one without anything. The apple soaked in salt water appears the freshest with minimal browning. ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201810'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Side-by-side comparison of four sliced apples after testing different methods to prevent browning: lemon juice, salt water soak, fruit preserver and apple juice, plus one without anything. The apple soaked in salt water appears the freshest with minimal browning. ](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/apples-browning-test.jpg) ## The Winner: Salt Water Soak Out of all the methods I tried, the salt water soak came out on top. The apples looked the freshest after several hours, and none of my kids noticed a difference in taste. No citrus tang, no salty bite, no extra gadgets needed. Just a quick 5-minute soak and a rinse. It’s simple, budget-friendly and totally lunchbox-friendly. And that’s *Just a Taste Approved*\! **Why it works:** The salt slows oxidation by pulling moisture to the surface and slightly lowering the pH. ## FAQs **Do all apples brown at the same rate?** Nope! Some apples brown faster than others. Granny Smiths tend to brown slower, while sweeter varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp brown more quickly. If your kid has a favorite, try the salt water method—it works across all types. **Can I cut apples the night before and store them in the fridge?** Yes! Use the salt water trick, rinse, dry, and then store them in an airtight container or snack bag in the fridge. I do this for school lunches all the time, and the apples stay crisp and fresh overnight. **Will salt water make the apples taste salty?** Not at all—as long as you rinse them after soaking! The salt works its magic during the soak but disappears after a quick rinse. My kids never notice a thing. **How long will treated apples stay white in a lunchbox?** With the salt water method, apples can look fresh for at least 6 hours—long enough to survive a full school day. I’ve even tested a few overnight, and they still looked great by morning. **Is there a method that keeps apples white all day?** None are totally foolproof, but salt water is your best bet for long-lasting results without affecting flavor. If appearance is a top priority (say, for a party platter), slice apples last-minute or use a fruit preserver powder. ![Apple slices that have turned brown next to apple slices that have been soaked in water and haven't turned brown.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201810'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Apple slices that have turned brown next to apple slices that have been soaked in water and haven't turned brown.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brown-white-apples.jpg) This simple trick for how to keep apples from turning brown has been a game changer for my crew—and now it’s your turn to try it! Whether you’re whipping up an epic [charcuterie board](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-make-the-best-charcuterie-board/) or just trying to survive a Tuesday morning rush, this easy method keeps your apples crisp, fresh-looking and totally kid-approved. **Got another lunch-packing question you want me to test?** Let me know—I’m always game for a little mom science\! ## More Lunch-Packing Wins - [10 School Lunches That Aren’t Sandwiches](https://www.justataste.com/school-lunches-that-arent-sandwiches/) - [The Ultimate School Lunch Guide](https://www.justataste.com/school-lunch-ideas/) - [Healthy Snacks for Kids](https://www.justataste.com/school-snack-recipes-for-kids/) Craving more? [Subscribe to Just a Taste](https://www.justataste.com/subscribe/ "Subscribe to Just a Taste") to get new recipes, meal plans and a newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! And stay in touch on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/justatasteblog "Just a Taste Facebook"), [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@justataste "Just a Taste TikTok"), [Pinterest](http://www.pinterest.com/justataste/ "Just a Taste Pinterest") and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/justataste/ "Just a Taste Instagram") for all of the latest updates. Snack ## How to Keep Apple Slices from Browning The easiest way to keep apple slices from browning! This quick salt water soak keeps apples crisp, fresh-looking, and kid-approved for lunchboxes or snacks. Author: [Kelly Senyei](https://www.justataste.com/about-just-a-taste/) No ratings yet ![Sliced apples that haven't turned brown, tucked into a lunchbox.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/add-apple-lunchbox.jpg) Prep Time 5 minutes mins Cook Time 0 minutes mins Total Time 5 minutes mins Servings 2 apples, scale as needed [Print Recipe](https://www.justataste.com/wprm_print/how-to-keep-apple-slices-from-browning) ### Ingredients 1x 2x 3x - ▢ 1 cup cold water - ▢ 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt - ▢ Apple slices (1–2 apples, any variety) ### Instructions - Stir the salt into the water until dissolved. - Add apple slices and let soak for 5 minutes. - Rinse, pat dry, and pack into lunchboxes, serve on party platters, or store in the fridge for snacks, salads or cheese boards. ### Kelly’s Notes - Works for any type of apple. - Keeps slices looking fresh for up to 6 hours. - Kid-approved and taste-tested—no salty flavor after rinsing\! - ★ **Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below\!** ### Nutrition Calories: 95kcal, Carbohydrates: 25g, Protein: 0\.5g, Fat: 0\.3g, Saturated Fat: 0\.1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0\.1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0\.01g, Sodium: 14mg, Potassium: 195mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 19g, Vitamin A: 98IU, Vitamin C: 8mg, Calcium: 18mg, Iron: 0\.2mg Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below with your star rating\! *This post may contain affiliate links.* *** ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201120%201479'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/recipe-challenge-image.jpg) Categories - [Cooking for Kids](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/cooking-for-kids/) - [Recipes](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/) - [Snacks](https://www.justataste.com/category/recipes/snack-recipes/) ## Related Recipes **Check out more crave-worthy favorites** [![A charcuterie spread with meats, cheeses, olives, fruit and crackers](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20424%20600'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![A charcuterie spread with meats, cheeses, olives, fruit and crackers](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/fall-charcuterie-board-424x600.jpg)](https://www.justataste.com/fall-charcuterie-board/) ### [Fall Charcuterie Board](https://www.justataste.com/fall-charcuterie-board/) ![Kelly Senyei holding a copy of The Secret Ingredient Cookbook](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20688%20688'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Kelly Senyei holding a copy of The Secret Ingredient Cookbook](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/after-post-pre-order-688x688.jpg) ## love the recipes on just a taste? Check out my cookbook\! Order your copy of *The Secret Ingredient Cookbook* featuring 125 brand-new family-friendly recipes with surprisingly tasty twists\! [order now](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0358353971) ### Join the Conversation [Cancel reply](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/#respond) Rate and Comment ### Comments 1. **Debbie Damelio** says: August 1, 2025 at 12:23 pm I always soaked the slices in lemon lime soda (7Up, Sprite, etc) and that worked, too. I like the salt water better….always have those ingredients. [Reply](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/#comment-2072269) 1. **Kelly Senyei** says: August 3, 2025 at 7:41 pm Great idea, Debbie\! [Reply](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-keep-apples-from-browning/#comment-2072486) ![avatar](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/kelly-senyei_square-headshot.jpg) Welcome to Just a Taste Welcome! 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Tired of slicing apples only to have them turn brown before you can enjoy them? I tested four of the most popular methods for **how to keep apples from browning** to see which one actually works (and passes the picky-kid taste test). The winner? A super simple trick that takes just 5 minutes—and it’s now a staple in our lunchboxes, party platters, snack prep and even cheese boards. ![Sliced apples that haven't turned brown, tucked into a lunchbox.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/add-apple-lunchbox.jpg) Ah, the ol’ parent report card: *Just how much of their lunch did they actually eat?* If brown apple slices are regularly making their way back home untouched, you’re not alone. Luckily, I’ve tested four of the most popular methods for keeping sliced apples fresh—and I’ve got the scoop on which one actually works without leaving them tasting weird. > ## **The Best Way to Keep Apples from Browning** > Soak sliced apples in salt water (\½ teaspoon salt per 1 cup of water) for 5 minutes. Rinse, dry and pack! It keeps them fresh without affecting the taste for up to 6 hours. ![Squeezing lemon juice over apple slices to test how soon they turn brown.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/squeeze-lemon.jpg) ![Four apple slices soaking in a saltwater bath in a small bowl.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/soak-salt-water.jpg) ![Apple slices sprinkled with a fruit preserver on a cutting board.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/fruit-preserver-1.jpg) ![A small bowl containing apple slices soaking in apple cider vinegar.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/apple-juice-soak.jpg) ## I Tested 4 Popular Methods to Keep Apples Fresh Science experiment, but make it mom life. I tested the most popular tricks so you don’t have to—because if anyone’s going to be picky about apple slices turning brown, it’s our kids. Here’s to no more sad, brown apples making the trip back home in the lunchbox\! ### Method 1: Lemon Juice The classic. A quick squeeze of lemon juice over sliced apples helps slow oxidation thanks to the acidity. It works, but let’s be honest—some kids (mine included) aren’t big fans of the tangy aftertaste. ### Method 2: Salt Water Soak This one surprised me! Soak the apple slices in a bowl of salt water (\½ teaspoon salt per cup of water) for 5 minutes, then give them a quick rinse. The result? Crisp, fresh-looking apples with zero salty flavor. This method gets my vote for being the most effective without messing with taste. ### Method 3: Fruit Preserver Powder Fruit preservers (like [Mrs. Wages Fresh Fruit Preserver](https://amzn.to/41cKRAK)) are made from citric acid and are super effective at slowing browning. Just sprinkle and toss. It works well and doesn’t change the flavor, but it’s one more item to remember to buy. ### Method 4: Apple Juice Dunk Yep, apple juice! Dunking sliced apples in apple juice coats them in a similar pH and sugar level, which slows browning and keeps the flavor consistent. It’s a great option if you already have juice on hand, and it definitely passed the kid taste test. ![Side-by-side comparison of four sliced apples after testing different methods to prevent browning: lemon juice, salt water soak, fruit preserver and apple juice, plus one without anything. The apple soaked in salt water appears the freshest with minimal browning. ](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/apples-browning-test.jpg) ## The Winner: Salt Water Soak Out of all the methods I tried, the salt water soak came out on top. The apples looked the freshest after several hours, and none of my kids noticed a difference in taste. No citrus tang, no salty bite, no extra gadgets needed. Just a quick 5-minute soak and a rinse. It’s simple, budget-friendly and totally lunchbox-friendly. And that’s *Just a Taste Approved*\! **Why it works:** The salt slows oxidation by pulling moisture to the surface and slightly lowering the pH. ## FAQs **Do all apples brown at the same rate?** Nope! Some apples brown faster than others. Granny Smiths tend to brown slower, while sweeter varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp brown more quickly. If your kid has a favorite, try the salt water method—it works across all types. **Can I cut apples the night before and store them in the fridge?** Yes! Use the salt water trick, rinse, dry, and then store them in an airtight container or snack bag in the fridge. I do this for school lunches all the time, and the apples stay crisp and fresh overnight. **Will salt water make the apples taste salty?** Not at all—as long as you rinse them after soaking! The salt works its magic during the soak but disappears after a quick rinse. My kids never notice a thing. **How long will treated apples stay white in a lunchbox?** With the salt water method, apples can look fresh for at least 6 hours—long enough to survive a full school day. I’ve even tested a few overnight, and they still looked great by morning. **Is there a method that keeps apples white all day?** None are totally foolproof, but salt water is your best bet for long-lasting results without affecting flavor. If appearance is a top priority (say, for a party platter), slice apples last-minute or use a fruit preserver powder. ![Apple slices that have turned brown next to apple slices that have been soaked in water and haven't turned brown.](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/brown-white-apples.jpg) This simple trick for how to keep apples from turning brown has been a game changer for my crew—and now it’s your turn to try it! Whether you’re whipping up an epic [charcuterie board](https://www.justataste.com/how-to-make-the-best-charcuterie-board/) or just trying to survive a Tuesday morning rush, this easy method keeps your apples crisp, fresh-looking and totally kid-approved. **Got another lunch-packing question you want me to test?** Let me know—I’m always game for a little mom science\! Craving more? [Subscribe to Just a Taste](https://www.justataste.com/subscribe/ "Subscribe to Just a Taste") to get new recipes, meal plans and a newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! And stay in touch on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/justatasteblog "Just a Taste Facebook"), [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@justataste "Just a Taste TikTok"), [Pinterest](http://www.pinterest.com/justataste/ "Just a Taste Pinterest") and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/justataste/ "Just a Taste Instagram") for all of the latest updates. Prep Time 5 minutes Cook Time 0 minutes Total Time 5 minutes Servings 2 apples, scale as needed - ▢ 1 cup cold water - ▢ 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt - ▢ Apple slices (1–2 apples, any variety) - Stir the salt into the water until dissolved. - Add apple slices and let soak for 5 minutes. - Rinse, pat dry, and pack into lunchboxes, serve on party platters, or store in the fridge for snacks, salads or cheese boards. - Works for any type of apple. - Keeps slices looking fresh for up to 6 hours. - Kid-approved and taste-tested—no salty flavor after rinsing\! - ★ **Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below\!** Calories: 95kcal, Carbohydrates: 25g, Protein: 0\.5g, Fat: 0\.3g, Saturated Fat: 0\.1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0\.1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0\.01g, Sodium: 14mg, Potassium: 195mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 19g, Vitamin A: 98IU, Vitamin C: 8mg, Calcium: 18mg, Iron: 0\.2mg Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below with your star rating\! *This post may contain affiliate links.* *** ![](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/recipe-challenge-image.jpg) Categories ## Related Recipes **Check out more crave-worthy favorites** ![Kelly Senyei holding a copy of The Secret Ingredient Cookbook](https://www.justataste.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/after-post-pre-order-688x688.jpg) ## love the recipes on just a taste? Check out my cookbook\! Order your copy of *The Secret Ingredient Cookbook* featuring 125 brand-new family-friendly recipes with surprisingly tasty twists\!
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