You can smell the pineapple on other sides too, but the strongest fragrance will come from the bottom or stem end. Throw out pineapples that smell fermented or like alcohol or vinegar, as they’re most likely bad.
If the pineapple’s hard, it’s probably unripe. If the pineapple molds too easily in your hands, it may be rotten inside.
This is a great way to pick between 2 pineapples at the store. Weigh each in your hands, and choose the heavier one. Note that “heavier” doesn’t mean “larger. ” A ripe, smaller-sized pineapple might be as heavy (or heavier) than a larger, unripe pineapple.
Be careful because a leaf that slips out too easily may be rotten inside.
Pineapples will start to change color on their base first. The more golden a pineapple is and the further the color rises towards the crown, the sweeter and riper it’ll be. Avoid pineapples with wrinkled or reddish-brown skin, as these are signs of rot.
If your cut pineapple turns brown or slimy, it’s gone bad and should be tossed right away. To keep your pineapple fresh longer, chop off the rough exterior and store it in the fridge in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a week.
Try freezing your pineapple pieces on a lined baking sheet before placing them in a freezer bag, so they don’t clump together. When you’re ready to use the pineapple, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature.
