A: Berries are by far the most perishable fruits. Many times we purchase berries from the store to enjoy and they have softened and molded by the time we are ready to use them. There are a few steps you can take to prolong the life of your fruit.

 

When purchasing berries, make sure they have no blemishes or bruises as this will decrease their shelf life. During storage time discard any berries you notice spoiling so the remaining berries stay fresh.

 

Berries are very sensitive to heat and sunlight. To keep berries cool for as long as possible, purchase them last on your grocery shopping trip and put them under refrigeration right away.

 

Store berries in an air tight container under refrigeration to ensure they retain their moisture and do not absorb flavors from other food items.

 

Do not wash berries before storing them in the refrigerator. Washing berries under running water can cause bruising. The berries can also become water logged and lose some of their natural flavors. For best results, wash berries in cold water right before eating.

 

Freezing berries is a great way to extend their shelf life even after berry season is over.

For best results, all berries should be cleaned, trimmed and individually frozen. To individually freeze berries, place them on a baking sheet that will fit in the freezer. Space the berries out so they do not touch and freeze until hard and store in plastic freezer bags. This process works with whole berries and slices as well.

Space the berries out on the baking sheet so they do not touch one another. Place baking sheet in freezer until berries are frozen. Once frozen, store berries in plastic freezer bags. This process works with whole berries and slices as well.