Do your strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries always seem to spoil just days after you buy them? You’re not alone. Many people throw away berries because they go bad so quickly, which wastes both money and food. But don’t worry—storage experts from Wheeldon Brothers have shared a simple tip that can keep your berries fresh for up to 10 days!
Here’s what they discovered and how you can easily try it at home.
Why Do Berries Go Bad So Fast?
Berries are super tasty but also very delicate. They can get moldy or mushy really fast, especially if they’re stored in damp conditions. Too much moisture causes them to spoil, making them go bad in just a couple of days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Berries?
Experts at Wheeldon Brothers tested three different ways to keep berries fresh. After trying all the options, they found that using a breathable storage container works best. This kind of container lets air move around while keeping the berries off the bottom, so they don’t sit in any moisture.
They said, “It’s one of the most effective ways to store fresh berries, and it can keep them edible for 10 days.” That means fewer trips to the store and less money wasted.
Why Not Use an Airtight Container?
You might think an airtight container would keep your berries fresh, but it’s not the best choice. The experts explained that airtight containers can trap moisture. Even if you line the container with a kitchen towel to soak up extra moisture, it’s usually not enough to stop berries—especially strawberries—from going mushy.
What About Keeping Berries in Their Store Packaging?
Some people just leave their berries in the container they bought them in, sometimes adding a bit of kitchen roll to help absorb moisture. But this method didn’t work very well for raspberries. It was okay for blueberries, though, since they have thicker skins and don’t spoil as quickly.
Should I Wash Berries Before Storing Them?
The experts say: No! Washing berries before storing them adds moisture, which makes them go bad faster. To keep them fresh, skip washing them until you’re ready to eat them. Keep the berries dry and store them somewhere cool—like the fridge.
Berries are delicious but can be expensive, so it’s important to store them properly to make them last. Using a breathable container with good ventilation helps keep berries fresh for up to 10 days. Airtight containers can make berries mushy, and store packaging doesn’t always work well.
Also, avoid washing berries until you’re ready to eat them, so they don’t get too moist and spoil too soon. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your berries longer, save money, and reduce food waste. So next time you bring home berries, try this easy trick and keep them tasty for days!