Nothing beats the taste of sweet and tart blueberries, especially in the summer. But, these delicate fruits can quickly turn mushy and rotten if not stored properly. Unlike many other berries, blueberries have a high water content, making them susceptible to bacteria and mold. Their natural sugars also ferment when exposed to air, leading to spoilage. But fear not, there’s a simple solution to keep your blueberries fresh for weeks!
Food storage expert Amy Cross, founder of The Cross Legacy, shares a quick and effective method to extend the shelf life of blueberries to six to eight weeks. It only takes a few minutes to wash, dry, and store them correctly, reducing food waste and saving money.
How to Keep Blueberries Fresher for Longer
The secret lies in a simple vinegar wash. Start by placing your blueberries in a bowl filled with cold water and about four tablespoons of white vinegar. The acidity of vinegar combats bacteria and mold growth on the surface of the blueberries, preventing spoilage.
Soak the blueberries for only two minutes, as any longer might impart a vinegar taste. Afterward, drain the blueberries in a colander or salad spinner, then spread them out on a tea towel to air dry completely. Any remaining moisture can encourage bacteria growth.
Once completely dry, store the blueberries in a glass container or mason jar with a lid. Glass containers are ideal for storing fruits as they help prevent spoiling. Before adding the blueberries, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
Amy recommends, “A paper towel should be placed at the bottom of the mason jar to collect any excess moisture. As long as you follow my instructions, a little bit of condensation in the jar is okay.”
Store the container in the refrigerator, and your blueberries should stay fresh, tart, and sweet for up to two months longer than usual.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the deliciousness of blueberries for weeks! Remember, washing blueberries correctly and storing them in glass containers can extend their shelf life to six to eight weeks, letting you savor those summer flavors for much longer.
