To keep berries fresh longer, follow these expert tips:
- Do not wash berries before storing. Washing adds moisture that speeds up spoilage. Instead, wash them only right before eating
- Use a vinegar water soak to kill mold spores and bacteria. Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 3 cups water and soak berries for 5-10 minutes when you get them home. Then rinse and dry thoroughly with paper towels. This can extend freshness up to two weeks
- Dry berries completely before storing. Lay them out on paper towels to absorb moisture, which prevents mold growth
- Store berries in a shallow container lined with paper towels. Keep the container slightly open or ventilated to allow excess moisture to escape. Avoid airtight containers that trap moisture
- Store berries upside down in the fridge. Placing the container upside down reduces pressure on the berries and helps keep them fresh
- Remove any moldy or overripe berries immediately. One bad berry can accelerate spoilage of the rest
- Check berries every couple of days and remove any starting to spoil. This helps prevent spread to others
- Use organic or unbleached paper towels if possible. This avoids chemicals seeping into the berries during storage
Following these steps will keep your berries fresh and mold-free for up to two weeks, saving money and reducing waste
