How to make strawberries last: Storage tips revealed
Strawberries are one of the most delicate fruits, and they quickly lose their freshness. Proper storage, however, can significantly extend their shelf life. Learn how to select and store strawberries to enjoy their flavour for as long as possible.
Strawberries are among the most popular fruits, but their delicate structure means they spoil quickly. To enjoy their taste for as long as possible, it is worth knowing a few simple rules about their storage. Thanks to these, you will avoid wasting fruit and be able to savour their freshness for a longer time.
What to pay attention to when buying strawberries?
The first step to longer storage of strawberries is to select them properly. When buying fruit, pay attention to their freshness and firmness. Choose strawberries with an intense red colour and green caps. Avoid damaged fruits or those showing signs of mould, as well as those that are green, since they do not ripen after being picked.
How to store strawberries?
To keep strawberries fresh, it is best to store them in a cool place. After bringing them home, do not put them in the refrigerator straightaway. Instead, transfer them to a shallow dish lined with a paper towel, which will absorb excess moisture. The strawberries should be arranged in a single layer to prevent bruising.
How to store strawberries in the refrigerator? To prolong the freshness of strawberries in the fridge, do not wash them before storing—wash them only just before consumption, as moisture promotes mould. Remove any damaged or mouldy fruits to protect the rest. Store them in the original packaging or in a container lined with a paper towel that absorbs moisture. Place the strawberries in the coolest part of the refrigerator—preferably in the bottom fruit and vegetable drawer. This way, they will stay fresh for several days.
Common mistakes in storing strawberries
Strawberries are delicate fruits that quickly lose their freshness, so it is important to avoid common mistakes during their storage. One of the most common mistakes is transferring strawberries to disposable plastic bags, which leads to bruising and faster spoiling.
Another mistake is washing strawberries before putting them in the fridge. Moisture accelerates moulding, so the fruits should be dry before storage, and washing is best left until just before eating.
Another common mistake is removing the caps before storage. The caps protect the interior of the fruit from moisture, which delays the spoiling process. Therefore, it is best to leave them on the fruits until consumption. It is also important to regularly check the condition of the strawberries and remove those that are starting to spoil to prevent the spread of mould to the remaining fruits. Avoiding these mistakes will allow you to enjoy the freshness of the fruits for longer and maintain their taste and quality.
