Mixed Berry Care & Handling

    Presented by Driscoll’s

    photo courtesy of driscoll’s

     

    Now that summer is really heating up, it’s time to remember the best ways to savor the season for as long as possible. It’s important to take care of your ripe berries the same as you would any other perishable food. (Don’t leave that milk out on the counter.) The warmer weather can greatly affect your berries if you leave them in the car for too long or don’t get them into the refrigerator fast enough. It can spell disaster for these little guys.  Moisture is also another culprit for spoiling berries. Keep those berries as dry as possible until you’re ready to enjoy them. 

    By: Joy Summers 

     

    Below are some simple steps to keep your berries at their peak best:

    STEP 1. Try to keep your berries as dry as possible – only rinse berries when you are ready to eat or make sure that the berries are completely dry before placing into the refrigerator. 

    STEP 2. Refrigerate berries in their original package between 32 and 34 F. (The original packaging allows for the proper amount of air to flow through to help keep the berries dry and chilled.)

    STEP 3. Rinse berries gently in a colander with cool water just before you’re ready to eat them. Then lay them out on a paper towel to remove the excess water.

    STEP 4. To enhance their natural flavors, let your berries reach room temperature before serving.

     

    Guide for keeping berries:

    Raspberries – last 2 days

    Blackberries – last 2 days

    Strawberries – last 3-5 days

    Blueberries – last 5-7 days

     

    Watch this video on How to Freeze Berries & Proper Care by Driscoll’s Berries

     

    This post is presented by Driscoll’s