How to choose fresh produce at the market: secrets of cucumbers and eggplants

When you enter the market, products often look the same. However, choosing high-quality, fresh vegetables is a process that requires a little experience and attention. Knowing specific signs when buying cucumbers and eggplants will help you make not only a tasty but also a healthy choice.

Cucumber: fresh or old — how to tell?

When choosing a fresh cucumber, first pay attention to its appearance. A high-quality cucumber:

• Has a dark green and uniform color;
• The skin can be smooth or slightly bumpy, but not wrinkled;
• Feels firm and elastic when squeezed.

— If a cucumber is yellowed, soft, or has dried ends, it is a sign that it is old. Such a product has a lower water content and may taste bitter.

Another important point: very large cucumbers often have enlarged seeds and can be hollow inside. It is better to choose medium-sized ones.

Eggplant: fresh or old — how to tell?

When choosing an eggplant, shine and weight are the main criteria. A fresh eggplant:

• Has a shiny, smooth skin with a deep color;
• Bounces back quickly when pressed with fingers;
• Feels heavy for its size.

If the skin is dull, spotted, or soft, it indicates it has been stored for a long time. Also, the stem (cap) should be green and not dried out — this is one of the clearest signs of a freshly picked one.

Most common mistakes

Many shoppers choose based solely on price. However, cheap products are often of poor quality or old. Another mistake is being deceived by appearance alone. Some vegetables may be artificially washed to look attractive.