Select grapes that are fresh and plump. Grapes should be uniform in color without brown spots. They should not fall off the stem, but yield after pulling slightly.

Wash grapes carefully in cool water before using. Grapes are ideal as a luncheon dessert, snack, wine and cheese complement, or garnish. They are also delicious when tossed into a salad, or mixed into yogurt and cereals.

To freeze grapes, wash and pat dry. Place a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid. Once frozen, pack in airtight freezer containers. These are a great snack!

Eat grapes right away or store grapes unwashed in a clear plastic bag separate from other fruit and vegetables in the crisper bin of your refrigerator. Wash with cool water and drain before serving. Grapes can be stored for up to one week.

• A cup of red or green grapes has only 100 calories; there's 60 in a cup of Concord grapes.
• Two recent reports suggest that substances called anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins, which give Concord grape juice its rich color, may help slow the growth of breast-cancer tumors. (The same pigments may help prevent short-term memory loss, too).
• A new animal study finds antioxidants called polyphenols in grapes protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas and may help to prevent type 1 diabetes.
• Compounds found in grapeseeds may offer protection against sun-related skin cancer.

• Pick grape clusters that have plump berries and are firmly attached to the stem.
• An amber or honey colored tint on Thompson seedless green grapes means they were left on the vine longer and are really sweet.
• Stash unwashed grapes in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week to keep them fresh.
• Store grapes far away from scallions and other pungent foods so they won't absorb the flavors.
• Rinse grapes thoroughly. Most conventionally grown grapes are sprayed with peseticides, so make sure to wash them extra well.

Nutritional Facts:

• Fat-free
• Saturated fat-free
• Sodium-free
• Cholesterol-free

See also:  Grape Food Facts, Those Old Grapes.

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